Methods and systems for using voice input to control a surgical robot

ABSTRACT

Methods, apparatuses, and systems for using speech input to control a surgical robot are disclosed. A surgical robot is disclosed that can be controlled by a surgeon using speech input in a conversational manner. The surgical robot is provided either general commands or specific instructions, assessing whether the instructions can be completed within the capabilities of the available hardware and resources, and seeking approval from the surgeon prior to executing the instructions. Alternatively, the embodiments disclosed allow the surgeon to perform an action that cannot be safely completed by the surgical robot.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to automated and robotic surgical procedures and specifically to systems and methods for using voice input to control a surgical robot.

BACKGROUND

More than 200 million surgeries are performed worldwide each year, and recent reports reveal that adverse event rates for surgical conditions remain unacceptably high, despite traditional patient safety initiatives. Adverse events resulting from surgical interventions can be related to errors occurring before or after the procedure as well as technical surgical errors during the operation. For example, adverse events can occur due to (i) breakdown in communication within and among the surgical team, care providers, patients, and their families; (ii) delay in diagnosis or failure to diagnose; and (iii) delay in treatment or failure to treat. The risk of complications during surgery can include anesthesia complications, hemorrhaging, high blood pressure, a rise or fall in body temperature, etc. Such adverse events can further occur due to medical errors, infections, underlying physical or health conditions of the patient, reactions to anesthetics or other drugs, etc. Conventional methods for preventing wrong-site, wrong-person, wrong-procedure errors, or retained foreign objects are typically based on communication between the patient, the surgeon(s), and other members of the health care team. However, conventional methods are typically insufficient to prevent surgical errors and adverse events during surgery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example surgical system, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example machine learning (ML) system, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer system, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating an example robotic surgical system, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4B illustrates an example console of the robotic surgical system of FIG. 4A, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating subcomponents of the robotic surgical system of FIG. 4A, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example robotic surgical system for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a table illustrating an example procedure database, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more thoroughly from now on with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like numerals represent like elements throughout the several figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. However, embodiments can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples, among other possible examples. Throughout this specification, plural instances (e.g., “602”) can implement components, operations, or structures (e.g., “602 a”) described as a single instance. Further, plural instances (e.g., “602”) refer collectively to a set of components, operations, or structures (e.g., “602 a”) described as a single instance. The description of a single component (e.g., “602 a”) applies equally to a like-numbered component (e.g., “602 b”) unless indicated otherwise. These and other aspects, features, and implementations can be expressed as methods, apparatus, systems, components, program products, means or steps for performing a function, and in other ways. These and other aspects, features, and implementations will become apparent from the following descriptions.

A surgeon sometimes needs the simultaneous use of multiple tools, exceeding the capacity of their two hands. Traditionally, nurses and other doctors assist the surgeon, following their direction. Recently, surgical robots are being used to replace additional personnel in assisting a surgeon; however, unlike other humans, the surgical robots do not accept speech commands. Surgical robots are traditionally controlled by physical interfaces, such as a joystick or other proprietary controller intended to capture a physical gesture. Some controls can be managed programmatically or use a traditional mouse and keyboard interface. However, such systems are less capable of responding quickly to situations that may arise during a surgical procedure. Traditional methods for natural language processing sometimes result in misunderstood speech, which during a surgical procedure can result in harm to the patient.

The embodiments disclosed herein describe methods, apparatuses, and systems for using speech input to control a surgical robot. In some embodiments, a surgical robot is disclosed that can be controlled by a surgeon using spoken commands in a conversational manner. The surgical robot is provided either general commands or specific instructions assessing whether the instructions can be completed within the capabilities of the available hardware and resources, and seeking approval from the surgeon prior to executing the instructions. Alternatively, the embodiments disclosed allow the surgeon to perform an action that cannot be safely completed by the surgical robot.

The advantages and benefits of the methods, systems, and apparatuses disclosed herein include compatibility with best practice guidelines for performing surgery in an operating room, e.g., from regulatory bodies and professional standards organizations such as the Association for Surgical Technologists. The robotic surgical system disclosed provides an interface that is prompt and responsive for performing robotic surgery. The disclosed methods provide speech control of a surgical robot while maintaining patient safety. The facilitation of the use of multiple robotic arms via speech control provides greater flexibility to a surgeon during a procedure without requiring additional personnel in an operating room. Thus, a second surgeon can be made available to perform another procedure, increasing capacity and reducing cost.

The robotic surgery technologies disclosed further offer valuable enhancements to medical or surgical processes through improved precision, stability, and dexterity. The disclosed methods relieve medical personnel from routine tasks and make medical procedures safer and less costly for patients. The embodiments disclosed enable performing more accurate surgery in more minute locations on or within the human body. The embodiments also address the use of dangerous substances. The adoption of robotic systems, according to the embodiments disclosed herein, provides several additional benefits, including efficiency and speed improvements, lower costs, and higher accuracy. The equipment tracking system integrated into the disclosed embodiments offers flexibility and other advantages, such as requiring no line-of-sight, reading multiple radio frequency identification (RFID) objects at once, and scanning at a distance. The advantages offered by the surgical tower according to the embodiments disclosed herein are smaller incisions, less pain, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery time, less scarring, and reduced blood loss. The advantages of the convolutional neural network (CNN) used for machine learning (ML) in the disclosed embodiments include the obviation of feature extraction and the use of shared weight in convolutional layers, which means that the same filter (weights bank) is used for each node in the layer; this both reduces memory footprint and improves performance.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example surgical system 100, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The system 100 includes various surgical and medical equipment (e.g., a patient monitor 112) located within an operating room 102 or a doctor's office 110, a console 108 for performing surgery or other patient care, and a database 106 for storing electronic health records. The console 108 is the same as or similar to the console 420 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4A. The system 100 is implemented using the components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. Likewise, embodiments of the system 100 can include different and/or additional components or can be connected in different ways.

The operating room 102 is a facility, e.g., within a hospital, where surgical operations are carried out in an aseptic environment. Proper surgical procedures require a sterile field. In some embodiments, the sterile field is maintained in the operating room 102 in a medical care facility such as a hospital, the doctor's office 110, or outpatient surgery center.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes one or more medical or surgical patient monitors 112. The monitors 112 can include a vital signs monitor (a medical diagnostic instrument), which can be a portable, battery powered, multi-parametric, vital signs monitoring device used for both ambulatory and transport applications as well as bedside monitoring. The vital signs monitor can be used with an isolated data link to an interconnected portable computer or the console 108, allowing snapshot and trended data from the vital signs monitor to be printed automatically at the console 108, and also allowing default configuration settings to be downloaded to the vital signs monitor. The vital signs monitor is capable of use as a stand-alone unit as well as part of a bidirectional wireless communications network that includes at least one remote monitoring station (e.g., the console 108). The vital signs monitor can measure multiple physiologic parameters of a patient wherein various sensor output signals are transmitted either wirelessly or by means of a wired connection to at least one remote site, such as the console 108.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 include a heart rate monitor, which is a sensor and/or a sensor system applied in the context of monitoring heart rates. The heart rate monitor measures, directly or indirectly, any physiological condition from which any relevant aspect of heart rate can be gleaned. For example, some embodiments of the heart rate monitor measure different or overlapping physiological conditions to measure the same aspect of heart rate. Alternatively, some embodiments measure the same, different, or overlapping physiological conditions to measure different aspects of heart rate, e.g., number of beats, strength of beats, regularity of beats, beat anomalies, etc.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 include a pulse oximeter or SpO2 monitor, which is a plethysmograph or any instrument that measures variations in the size of an organ or body part of the patient on the basis of the amount of blood passing through or present in the part. The pulse oximeter is a type of plethysmograph that determines the oxygen saturation of the blood by indirectly measuring the oxygen saturation of the patient's blood (as opposed to measuring oxygen saturation directly through a blood sample) and changes in blood volume in the skin. The pulse oximeter can include a light sensor that is placed at a site on the patient, usually a fingertip, toe, forehead, or earlobe, or in the case of a neonate, across a foot. Light, which can be produced by a light source integrated into the pulse oximeter, containing both red and infrared wavelengths, is directed onto the skin of the patient, and the light that passes through the skin is detected by the pulse oximeter. The intensity of light in each wavelength is measured by the pulse oximeter over time. The graph of light intensity versus time is referred to as the photoplethysmogram (PPG) or, more commonly, simply as the “pleth.” From the waveform of the PPG, it is possible to identify the pulse rate of the patient and when each individual pulse occurs. In addition, by comparing the intensities of two wavelengths when a pulse occurs, it is possible to determine blood oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in arterial blood. This relies on the observation that highly oxygenated blood will relatively absorb more red light and less infrared light than blood with a lower oxygen saturation.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 include an end tidal CO2 monitor or capnography monitor used for measurement of the level of carbon dioxide that is released at the end of an exhaled breath (referred to as end tidal carbon dioxide, ETCO2). An end tidal CO2 monitor or capnography monitor is widely used in anesthesia and intensive care. ETCO2 can be calculated by plotting expiratory CO2 with time. Further, ETCO2 monitors are important for the measurement of applications such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), airway assessment, procedural sedation and analgesia, pulmonary diseases such as obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary embolism, etc., heart failure, metabolic disorders, etc. The end tidal CO2 monitor can be configured as side stream (diverting) or mainstream (non-diverting). A diverting end tidal CO2 monitor transports a portion of a patient's respired gases from the sampling site to the end tidal CO2 monitor while a non-diverting end tidal CO2 monitor does not transport gas away. Also, measurement by the end tidal CO2 monitor is based on the absorption of infrared light by carbon dioxide where exhaled gas passes through a sampling chamber containing an infrared light source and photodetector on both sides. Based on the amount of infrared light reaching the photodetector, the amount of carbon dioxide present in the gas can be determined.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 include a blood pressure monitor that measures blood pressure, particularly in arteries. The blood pressure monitor uses a non-invasive technique (by external cuff application) or an invasive technique (by a cannula needle inserted in artery, used in the operating room 102) for measurement. The non-invasive method (referred to as a sphygmomanometer) works by measurement of force exerted against arterial walls during ventricular systole (i.e., systolic blood pressure occurs when the heart beats and pushes blood through the arteries) and ventricular diastole (i.e., diastolic blood pressure occurs when the heart rests and is filling with blood) thereby measuring systole and diastole, respectively. The blood pressure monitor can be of three types: automatic/digital, manual (aneroid-dial), and manual (mercury-column). The sphygmomanometer can include a bladder, a cuff, a pressure meter, a stethoscope, a valve, and a bulb. The cuff inflates until it fits tightly around the patient's arm, cutting off the blood flow, and then the valve opens to deflate it. The blood pressure monitor operates by inflating a cuff tightly around the arm; as the cuff reaches the systolic pressure, blood begins to flow in the artery, creating a vibration, which is detected by the blood pressure monitor, which records the systolic pressure. The techniques used for measurement can be auscultatory or oscillometric.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 include a body temperature monitor. The body temperature monitor measures the temperature invasively or non-invasively by placement of a sensor into organs such as bladder, rectum, esophagus, tympanum, etc., and mouth, armpit, etc., respectively. The body temperature monitor is of two types: contact and non-contact. Temperature can be measured in two forms: core temperature and peripheral temperature. Temperature measurement can be done by thermocouples, resistive temperature devices (RTDs, thermistors), infrared radiators, bimetallic devices, liquid expansion devices, molecular change-of-state, and silicon diodes. A body temperature monitor commonly used for the measurement of temperature includes a temperature sensing element (e.g., temperature sensor) and a means for converting to a numerical value.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 measure respiration rate or breathing rate, which is the rate at which breathing occurs, and which is measured by the number of breaths the patient takes per minute. The rate is measured when a person is at rest and simply involves counting the number of breaths for one minute by counting how many times the chest rises. Normal respiration rates for an adult patient at rest are in the range: 12 to 16 breaths per minute. A variation can be an indication of an abnormality/medical condition or the patient's demographic parameters. The monitors 112 can indicate hypoxia, a condition with low levels of oxygen in the cells, or hypercapnia, a condition in which high levels of carbon dioxide are in the bloodstream. Pulmonary disorders, asthma, anxiety, pneumonia, heart diseases, dehydration, and drug overdose are some abnormal conditions, which can bring a change to the respiration rate, thereby increasing or reducing the respiration rate from normal levels.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 measure an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), a representation of the electrical activity of the heart (graphical trace of voltage versus time) by placement of electrodes on skin/body surface. The electrodes capture the electrical impulse, which travels through the heart causing systole and diastole or the pumping of the heart. This impulse provides information related to the normal functioning of the heart and the production of impulses. A change can occur due to medical conditions such as arrhythmias (tachycardia where the heart rate becomes faster and bradycardia where the heart rate becomes slower), coronary heart disease, heart attacks, or cardiomyopathy. The instrument used for measurement of the electrocardiogram is called an electrocardiograph which measures the electrical impulses by the placement of electrodes on the surface of the body and represents the ECG by a PQRST waveform. A PQRST wave is read as: P wave, which represents the depolarization of the left and right atrium and corresponds to atrial contraction; QRS complex, which indicates ventricular depolarization and represents the electrical impulse as it spreads through the ventricles; and T wave, which indicates ventricular repolarization and follows the QRS complex.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 perform neuromonitoring, also called intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM). For example, the monitors 112 assess functions and changes in the brain, brainstem, spinal cord, cranial nerves, and peripheral nerves during a surgical procedure on these organs. Monitoring includes both continuous monitoring of neural tissue as well as the localization of vital neural structures. IONM measures changes in these organs where the changes are indicative of irreversible damage or injuries in the organs, aiming at reducing the risk of neurological deficits after operations involving the nervous system. Monitoring is effective in localization of anatomical structures, including peripheral nerves and the sensorimotor cortex, which help in guiding the surgeon during dissection. Electrophysiological modalities employed in neuromonitoring are an extracellular single unit and local field recordings (LFP), somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP), transcranial electrical motor evoked potentials (TCeMEP), electromyography (EMG), electroencephalography (EEG), and auditory brainstem response (ABR). The use of neurophysiological monitoring during surgical procedures requires anesthesia techniques to avoid interference and signal alteration due to anesthesia.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 measure motor evoked potential (MEP), electrical signals that are recorded from descending motor pathways or muscles following stimulation of motor pathways within the brain. MEP is determined by measurement of the action potential elicited by non-invasive stimulation of the motor cortex through the scalp. MEP is for intraoperative monitoring and neurophysiological testing of the motor pathways specifically during spinal procedures. The technique of monitoring for measurement of MEP is defined based on parameters, such as a site of stimulation (motor cortex or spinal cord), method of stimulation (electrical potential or magnetic field), and site of recording (spinal cord or peripheral mixed nerve and muscle). The target site is stimulated by the use of electrical or magnetic means.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 measure somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP or SEP), the electrical signals generated by the brain and the spinal cord in response to sensory stimulus or touch. SSEP is used for intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring in spinal surgeries. The measurements are reliable, which allows for continuous monitoring during a surgical procedure. The sensor stimulus commonly given to the organs can be auditory, visual, or somatosensory SEPs and applied on the skin, peripheral nerves of the upper limbs, lower limbs, or scalp. The stimulation technique can be mechanical, electrical (provides larger and more robust responses), or intraoperative spinal monitoring modality.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 provide electromyography (EMG), the evaluation and recording of electrical signals or electrical activity of the skeletal muscles. An electromyography instrument, electromyograph, or electromyogram for the measurement of the EMG activity records electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles and evaluates the functional integrity of individual nerves. The nerves monitored by an EMG instrument can be intracranial, spinal, or peripheral nerves. The electrodes used for the acquisition of signals can be invasive or non-invasive electrodes. The technique used for measurement can be spontaneous or triggered. Spontaneous EMG refers to the recording of myoelectric signals such as compression, stretching, or pulling of nerves during surgical manipulation, and does not perform external stimulation. Spontaneous EMG is recorded by the insertion of a needle electrode. Triggered EMG refers to the recording of myoelectric signals during stimulation of a target site such as pedicle screw with incremental current intensities.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 provide electroencephalography (EEG), measuring the electrical signals in the brain. Brain cells communicate with each other through electrical impulses. EEG can be used to help detect potential problems associated with this activity. An electroencephalograph is used for the measurement of EEG activity. Electrodes ranging from 8 to 16 pairs are attached to the scalp, where each pair of electrodes transmits a signal to one or more recording channels. EEG is a modality for intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and assessing cortical perfusion and oxygenation during a variety of vascular, cardiac, and neurosurgical procedures. The waves produced by EEG are alpha, beta, theta, and delta.

In some embodiments, the monitors 112 include sensors, such as microphones or optical sensors, that produce images or video captured from at least one of multiple imaging devices, for example, cameras attached to manipulators or end effectors, cameras mounted to the ceiling or other surface above the surgical theater, or cameras mounted on a tripod or other independent mounting device. In some embodiments, the cameras are body worn by a surgeon or other surgical staff, cameras are incorporated into a wearable device, such as an augmented reality device like Google Glass™, or cameras are integrated into an endoscopic, microscopic, or laparoscopic device. In some embodiments, a camera or other imaging device (e.g., ultrasound) present in the operating room 102 is associated with one or more areas in the operating room 102. The sensors can be associated with measuring a specific parameter of the patient, such as respiratory rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen level, heart rate, etc.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a medical visualization apparatus 114 used for visualization and analysis of objects (preferably three-dimensional (3D) objects) in the operating room 102. The medical visualization apparatus 114 provides the selection of points at surfaces, selection of a region of interest, or selection of objects. The medical visualization apparatus 114 can also be used for diagnosis, treatment planning, intraoperative support, documentation, or educational purposes. The medical visualization apparatus 114 can further include microscopes, endoscopes/arthroscopes/laparoscopes, fiber optics, surgical lights, high-definition monitors, operating room cameras, etc. Three-dimensional (3D) visualization software provides visual representations of scanned body parts via virtual models, offering significant depth and nuance to static two-dimensional medical images. The software facilitates improved diagnoses, narrowed surgical operation learning curves, reduced operational costs, and shortened image acquisition times.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an instrument 118 such as an endoscope, arthroscope, or laparoscope for minimally invasive surgery (MIS), in which procedures are performed by performing a minimal incision in the body. An endoscope refers to an instrument used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside hollow organs where the instrument is inserted through natural body openings such as the mouth or anus. An endoscope can perform a procedure as follows: a scope with a tiny camera attached to a long, thin tube is inserted. The doctor moves it through a body passageway or opening to see inside an organ. It can be used for diagnosis and surgery (such as for removing polyps from the colon). An arthroscope refers to an instrument used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint by a TV camera inserted through small portals/incisions and to perform procedures on cartilage, ligaments, tendons, etc. An arthroscope can perform the procedure as follows: a surgeon makes a small incision in a patient's skin and inserts a pencil-sized instrument with a small lens and lighting system to magnify the target site (joint) and viewing of the interior of the joint by means of a miniature TV camera and then performs the procedure. A laparoscope refers to an instrument used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside soft organs like the abdomen and pelvis by a TV camera inserted through small portals/incisions and to perform procedures.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes fiber optics 120, which refer to flexible, transparent fiber made by drawing glass (silica) or plastic to a diameter slightly thicker than that of a human hair. Fiber optics 120 are arranged in bundles called optical cables and used to transmit light signals over long distances. Fiber optics 120 are used most often as a means to transmit light between the two ends of the fiber and find wide usage in the medical field. Traditional surgery requires sizable and invasive incisions to expose internal organs and operate on affected areas, but with fiber optics 120 much smaller surgical incisions can be performed. Fiber optics 120 contain components such as a core, cladding, and buffer coating. Fiber optics 120 can be inserted in hypodermic needles and catheters, endoscopes, operation theater tools, ophthalmological tools, and dentistry tools. Fiber optic sensors include a light source, optical fiber, external transducer, and photodetector. Fiber optic sensors can be intrinsic or extrinsic. Fiber optic sensors can be categorized into four types: physical, imaging, chemical, and biological.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes surgical lights 122 (referred to as operating lights) that perform illumination of a local area or cavity of the patient. Surgical lights 122 play an important role in illumination before, during, and after a medical procedure. Surgical lights 122 can be categorized by lamp type as conventional (incandescent) and LED (light-emitting diode). Surgical lights 122 can be categorized by mounting configuration as ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, or floor stand. Surgical lights 122 can be categorized by type as tungsten, quartz, xenon halogens, and/or LEDs. Surgical lights 122 include sterilizable handles which allow the surgeon to adjust light positions. Some important factors affecting surgical lights 122 can be illumination, shadow management (cast shadows and contour shadows), the volume of light, heat management, or fail-safe surgical lighting.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a surgical tower 128, e.g., used in conjunction with the robotic surgical system 160 disclosed herein, for MIS. The surgical tower 128 includes instruments used for performing MIS or surgery which is performed by creating small incisions in the body. The instruments are also referred to as minimally invasive devices or minimally invasive access devices. The procedure of performing MIS can also be referred to as a minimally invasive procedure. MIS is a safer, less invasive, and more precise surgical procedure. Some medical procedures where the surgical tower 128 is useful and widely used are procedures for lung, gynecological, head and neck, heart, and urological conditions. MIS can be robotic or non-robotic/endoscopic. MIS can include endoscopic, laparoscopic, arthroscopic, natural orifice intraluminal, and natural orifice transluminal procedures. A surgical tower access device can also be designed as an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve that telescopingly or slidably engages with one another. When a telescope is used to operate on the abdomen, the procedure is called laparoscopy. The surgical tower 128 typically includes access to a variety of surgical tools, such as, for example, electrocautery, radiofrequency, lasers, sensors, etc.

In some embodiments, radiofrequency (RF) is used in association with MIS devices. The RF can be used for the treatment of skin by delivering it to the skin through a minimally invasive surgical tool (e.g., fine needles) which does not require skin excision. The RF can be used for real-time tracking of MIS devices such as laparoscopic instruments. The RF can provide radiofrequency ablation to a patient suffering from atrial fibrillation through smaller incisions made between the ribs. The RF can be used to perform an endoscopic surgery on the body such as the spine by delivery of RF energy.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an instrument 130 to perform electrocautery for burning a part of the body to remove or close off a part of it. Various physiological conditions or surgical procedures require the removal of body tissues and organs, a consequence of which is bleeding. In order to achieve hemostasis and for removing and sealing all blood vessels which are supplied to an organ after surgical incision, the electrocautery instrument 130 can be used. For example, after removing part of the liver for removal of a tumor, etc., blood vessels in the liver must be sealed individually. The electrocautery instrument 130 can be used for sealing living tissue such as arteries, veins, lymph nodes, nerves, fats, ligaments, and other soft tissue structures. The electrocautery instrument 130 can be used in applications such as surgery, tumor removal, nasal treatment, or wart removal. Electrocautery can operate in two modes, monopolar or bipolar. The electrocautery instrument can 130 consist of a generator, a handpiece, and one or more electrodes.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a laser 132 used in association with MIS devices. The laser 132 can be used in MIS with an endoscope. The laser 132 is attached to the distal end of the endoscope and steered at high speed by producing higher incision quality than with existing surgical tools and minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. The laser 132 can be used to perform MIS using a laparoscope in the lower and upper gastrointestinal tract, eye, nose, and throat. The laser 132 is used in MIS to ablate soft tissues, such as a herniated spinal disc bulge.

In some embodiments, sensors 134 are used in association with MIS devices and the robotic surgical system 160 described herein. The sensors 134 can be used in MIS for tactile sensing of surgical tool-tissue interaction forces. During MIS, the field of view and workspace of surgical tools are compromised due to the indirect access to the anatomy and lack of surgeon's hand-eye coordination. The sensors 134 provide a tactile sensation to the surgeon by providing information of shape, stiffness, and texture of organ or tissue (different characteristics) to the surgeon's hands through a sense of touch. This detects a tumor through palpation, which exhibits a “tougher” feel than that of healthy soft tissue, pulse felt from blood vessels, and abnormal lesions. The sensors 134 can output shape, size, pressure, softness, composition, temperature, vibration, shear, and normal forces. The sensors 134 can be electrical or optical, consisting of capacitive, inductive, piezoelectric, piezoresistive, magnetic, and auditory. The sensors 134 can be used in robotic or laparoscopic surgery, palpation, biopsy, heart ablation, and valvuloplasty.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an imaging system 136 (instruments are used for the creation of images and visualization of the interior of a human body for diagnostic and treatment purposes). The imaging system 136 is used in different medical settings and can help in the screening of health conditions, diagnosing causes of symptoms, or monitoring of health conditions. The imaging system 136 can include various imaging techniques such as X-ray, fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, endoscopy, elastography, tactile imaging, thermography, medical photography, and nuclear medicine, e.g., positron emission tomography (PET). Some factors which can drive the market are cost and clinical advantages of medical imaging modalities, a rising share of ageing populations, increasing prevalence of cardiovascular or lifestyle diseases, and increasing demand from emerging economies.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 136 includes X-ray medical imaging instruments that use X-ray radiation (i.e., X-ray range in the electromagnetic radiation spectrum) for the creation of images of the interior of the human body for diagnostic and treatment purposes. An X-ray instrument is also referred to as an X-ray generator. It is a non-invasive instrument based on different absorption of X-rays by tissues based on their radiological density (radiological density is different for bones and soft tissues). For the creation of an image by the X-ray instrument, X-rays produced by an X-ray tube are passed through a patient positioned to the detector. As the X-rays pass through the body, images appear in shades of black and white, depending on the type and densities of tissue the X-rays pass through. Some of the applications where X-rays are used can be bone fractures, infections, calcification, tumors, arthritis, blood vessel blockages, digestive problems, or heart problems. The X-ray instrument can consist of components such as an X-ray tube, operating console, collimator, grid, detector, radiographic film, etc.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 136 includes MRI medical imaging instruments that use powerful magnets for the creation of images of the interior of the human body for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Some of the applications where MRI can be used can be brain/spinal cord anomalies, tumors in the body, breast cancer screening, joint injuries, uterine/pelvic pain detection, or heart problems. For the creation of the image by an MRI instrument, magnetic resonance is produced by powerful magnets which produce a strong magnetic field that forces protons in the body to align with that field. When a radiofrequency current is then pulsed through the patient, the protons are stimulated, and spin out of equilibrium, straining against the pull of the magnetic field. Turning off the radiofrequency field allows detection of energy released by realignment of protons with the magnetic field by MRI sensors. The time taken by the protons for realignment with the magnetic field and energy release is dependent on environmental factors and the chemical nature of the molecules. MRI can more widely suit for imaging of non-bony parts or soft tissues of the body. MRI can be less harmful as it does not use damaging ionizing radiation as in the X-ray instrument. MRI instruments can consist of magnets, gradients, radiofrequency systems, or computer control systems. Some areas where imaging by MRI should be prohibited can be people with implants.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 136 uses computed tomography imaging (CT) that uses an X-ray radiation (i.e., X-ray range in the electromagnetic radiation spectrum) for the creation of cross-sectional images of the interior of the human body. CT refers to a computerized X-ray imaging procedure in which a narrow beam of X-rays is aimed at a patient and quickly rotated around the body, producing signals that are processed by the machine's computer to generate cross-sectional images—or “slices”—of the body. A CT instrument is different from an X-ray instrument as it creates 3-dimensional cross-sectional images of the body while the X-ray instrument creates 2-dimensional images of the body; the 3-dimensional cross-sectional images are created by taking images from different angles, which is done by taking a series of tomographic images from different angles. The diverse images are collected by a computer and digitally stacked to form a 3-dimensional image of the patient. For creation of images by the CT instrument, a CT scanner uses a motorized X-ray source that rotates around the circular opening of a donut-shaped structure called a gantry while the X-ray tube rotates around the patient shooting narrow beams of X-rays through the body. Some of the applications where CT can be used can be blood clots; bone fractures, including subtle fractures not visible on X-ray; or organ injuries.

In some embodiments, the imaging system 136 includes ultrasound imaging, also referred to as sonography or ultrasonography, that uses ultrasound or sound waves (also referred to as acoustic waves) for the creation of cross-sectional images of the interior of the human body. Ultrasound waves in the imaging system 136 can be produced by a piezoelectric transducer which produces sound waves and sends them into the body. The sound waves that are reflected are converted into electrical signals which are sent to an ultrasound scanner. Ultrasound instruments can be used for diagnostic and functional imaging or for therapeutic or interventional procedures. Some of the applications where ultrasound can be used are diagnosis/treatment/guidance during medical procedures (e.g., biopsies, internal organs such as liver/kidneys/pancreas, fetal monitoring, etc.), in soft tissues, muscles, blood vessels, tendons, or joints. Ultrasound can be used for internal imaging (where the transducer is placed in organs, e.g., vagina) and external imaging (where the transducer is placed on the chest for heart monitoring or the abdomen for fetal monitoring). An ultrasound machine can consist of a monitor, keyboard, processor, data storage, probe, and transducer.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a stereotactic navigation system 138 that uses patient imaging (e.g., CT, MRI) to guide surgeons in the placement of specialized surgical instruments and implants. The patient images are taken to guide the physician before or during the medical procedure. The stereotactic navigation system 138 includes a camera having infrared sensors to determine the location of the tip of the probe being used in the surgical procedure. This information is sent in real-time so that the surgeons have a clear image of the precise location where they are working in the body. The stereotactic navigation system 138 can be framed (requires attachment of a frame to the patient's head using screws or pins) or frameless (does not require the placement of a frame on the patient's anatomy). The stereotactic navigation system 138 can be used for diagnostic biopsies, tumor resection, bone preparation/implant placement, placement of electrodes, otolaryngologic procedures, or neurosurgical procedures.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an anesthesiology machine 140 that is used to generate and mix medical gases, such as oxygen or air, and anesthetic agents to induce and maintain anesthesia in patients. The anesthesiology machine 140 delivers oxygen and anesthetic gas to the patient and filters out expiratory carbon dioxide. The anesthesiology machine 140 can perform functions such as providing oxygen (O2), accurately mixing anesthetic gases and vapors, enabling patient ventilation, and minimizing anesthesia-related risks to patients and staff. The anesthesiology machine 140 can include the following essential components: a source of O2, O2 flowmeter, vaporizer (anesthetics include isoflurane, halothane, enflurane, desflurane, sevoflurane, and methoxyflurane), patient breathing circuit (tubing, connectors, and valves), and scavenging system (removes any excess anesthetics gases). The anesthesiology machine 140 can be divided into three parts: the high pressure system, the intermediate pressure system, and the low pressure system. The process of anesthesia starts with oxygen flow from a pipeline or cylinder through the flowmeter; the O2 flows through the vaporizer and picks up the anesthetic vapors; the O2-anesthetic mix then flows through the breathing circuit and into the patient's lungs, usually by spontaneous ventilation or normal respiration.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a surgical bed 142 equipped with mechanisms that can elevate or lower the entire bed platform; flex, or extend individual components of the platform; or raise or lower the head or the feet of the patient independently. The surgical bed 142 can be an operation bed, cardiac bed, amputation bed, or fracture bed. Some essential components of the surgical bed 142 can be a bed sheet, woolen blanket, bath towel, and bed block. The surgical bed 142 can also be referred to as a post-operative bed, which refers to a special type of bed made for the patient who is coming from the operation theater or from another procedure that requires anesthesia. The surgical bed 142 is designed in a manner that makes it easier to transfer an unconscious or weak patient from a stretcher/wheelchair to the bed. The surgical bed 142 should protect bed linen from vomiting, bleeding, drainage, and discharge; provide warmth and comfort to the patient to prevent shock; provide necessary positions, which are suitable for operation; protect patient from being chilled; and be prepared to meet any emergency.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a Jackson frame 144 (or Jackson table), which refers to a frame or table which is designed for use in spinal surgeries and can be used in a variety of spinal procedures in supine, prone, or lateral positions in a safe manner. Two peculiar features of the Jackson table 144 are no central table support and an ability to rotate the table through 180 degrees. The Jackson table 144 is supported at both ends which keeps the whole of the table free. This allows the visualization of a patient's trunk and major parts of extremities as well. The Jackson frame 144 allows the patient to be slid from the cart onto the table in the supine position with appropriate padding placed. The patient is then strapped securely on the Jackson table 144.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a disposable air warmer 146 (sometimes referred to as a Bair™ or Bair Hugger™). The disposable air warmer 146 is a convective temperature management system used in a hospital or surgery center to maintain a patient's core body temperature. The disposable air warmer 146 includes a reusable warming unit and a single-use disposable warming blanket for use during surgery. It can also be used before and after surgery. The disposable air warmer 146 uses convective warming consisting of two components: a warming unit and a disposable blanket. The disposable air warmer 146 filters air and then forces warm air through disposable blankets which cover the patient. The blanket can be designed to use pressure points on the patient's body to prevent heat from reaching areas at risk for pressure sores or burns. The blanket can also include drain holes where fluid passes through the surface of the blanket to linen underneath which will reduce the risk of skin softening and reduce the risk of unintended cooling because of heat loss from evaporation.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a sequential compression device (SCD) 148 used to help prevent blood clots in the deep veins of legs. The sequential compression device 148 uses cuffs around the legs that fill with air and squeeze the legs. This increases blood flow through the veins of the legs and helps prevent blood clots. A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a vein deep inside the body. Some of the risks of using the SCD 148 can be discomfort, warmth, sweating beneath the cuff, skin breakdown, nerve damage, or pressure injury.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a bed position controller 150, which refers to an instrument for controlling the position of the patient bed. Positioning a patient in bed is important for maintaining alignment and for preventing bedsores (pressure ulcers), foot drop, and contractures. Proper positioning is also vital for providing comfort for patients who are bedridden or have decreased mobility related to a medical condition or treatment. When positioning a patient in bed, supportive devices such as pillows, rolls, and blankets, along with repositioning, can aid in providing comfort and safety. The patient can be in the following positions in a bed: supine position, prone position, lateral position, Sims' position, Fowler's position, semi-Fowler's position, orthopedic or tripod position, or Trendelenburg position.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes environmental controls 152. The environmental controls 152 can be operating room environmental controls for control or maintenance of the environment in the operating room 102 where procedures are performed to minimize the risk of airborne infection and to provide a conducive environment for everyone in the operating room 102 (e.g., surgeon, anesthesiologist, nurses, and patient). Some factors which can contribute to poor quality in the environment of the operating room 102 are temperature, ventilation, and humidity, and those conditions can lead to profound effects on the health and work productivity of people in the operating room 102. As an example: surgeons prefer a cool, dry climate since they work in bright, hot lights; anesthesia personnel prefer a warmer, less breezy climate; patient condition demands a relatively warm, humid, and quiet environment. The operating room environmental controls can control the environment by taking care of the following factors: environmental humidity, infection control, or odor control. Humidity control can be performed by controlling the temperature of anesthesia gases; infection can be controlled by the use of filters to purify the air.

In some embodiments, the environmental controls 152 include a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for regulating the environment of indoor settings by moving air between indoor and outdoor areas, along with heating and cooling. HVAC can use a different combination of systems, machines, and technologies to improve comfort. HVAC can be necessary to maintain the environment of the operating room 102. The operating room 102 can be a traditional operating room (which can have a large diffuser array directly above the operating table) or a hybrid operating room (which can have monitors and imaging equipment 136 that consume valuable ceiling space and complicate the design process). HVAC can include three main units, for example, a heating unit (e.g., furnace or boiler), a ventilation unit (natural or forced), and an air conditioning unit (which can remove existing heat). HVAC can be made of components such as air returns, filters, exhaust outlets, ducts, electrical elements, outdoor units, compressors, coils, and blowers. The HVAC system can use central heating and AC systems that use a single blower to circulate air via internal ducts.

In some embodiments, the environmental controls 152 include an air purification system for removing contaminants from the air in the operating room 102 to improve indoor air quality. Air purification can be important in the operating room 102 as surgical site infection can be a reason for high mortality and morbidity. The air purification system can deliver clean, filtered, contaminant-free air over the surgical bed 142 using a diffuser, airflow, etc., to remove all infectious particles down and away from the patient. The air purification system can be an air curtain, multi-diffuser array, or single large diffuser (based on laminar diffuser flow) or High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter. High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter (HEPA filter) protects from infection and contamination by a filter which is mounted at the terminal of the duct. A HEPA filter can be mounted on the ceiling and deliver clean, filtered air in a flow to the operating room 102 that provides a sweeping effect that pushes contaminants out via the return grilles that are usually mounted on the lower wall.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes one or more medical or surgical tools 154. The surgical tools 154 can include orthopedic tools (also referred to as orthopedic instruments) used for treatment and prevention of deformities and injuries of the musculoskeletal system or skeleton, articulations, and locomotive system (i.e., set formed by skeleton, muscles attached to it, and the part of the nervous system which controls the muscles). A major percentage of orthopedic tools are made of plastic. The orthopedic tools can be divided into the following specialties: hand and wrist, foot and ankle, shoulder and elbow, arthroscopic, hip, and knee. The orthopedic tools can be fixation tools, relieving tools, corrective tools, or compression-distraction tools. A fixation tool refers to a tool designed to restrict movements partially or completely in a joint, e.g., hinged splints (for preserving a certain range of movement in a joint) or rigid splints. A relieving tool refers to a tool designed to relieve pressure on an ailing part by transferring support to healthy parts of an extremity, e.g., Thomas splint and the Voskoboinikova apparatus. A corrective tool refers to a surgical tool designed to gradually correct a deformity, e.g., corsets, splints, orthopedic footwear, insoles, and other devices to correct abnormal positions of the foot. A compression-distraction tool refers to a surgical tool designed to correct acquired or congenital deformities of the extremities, e.g., curvature, shortening, and pseudarthrosis such as Gudushauri. A fixation tool can be an internal fixation tool (e.g., screws, plates) or external fixation tools used to correct a radius or tibia fracture. The orthopedic tools can be bone-holding forceps, drill bits, nail pins, hammers, staples, etc.

In some embodiments, the surgical tools 154 include a drill for making holes in bones for insertion of implants like nails, plates, screws, and wires. The drill tool functions by drilling cylindrical tunnels into bone. Drills can be used in orthopedics for performing medical procedures. If the drill does not stop immediately when used, the use of the drill on bones can have some risks, such as harm caused to bone, muscle, nerves, and venous tissues, which are wrapped by surrounding tissue. Drills vary widely in speed, power, and size. Drills can be powered as electrical, pneumatic, or battery. Drills generally can work on speeds below 1000 rpm in orthopedic settings. Temperature control of drills is an important aspect in the functioning of the drill and is dependent on parameters such as rotation speed, torque, orthotropic site, sharpness of the cutting edges, irrigation, and cooling systems. The drill can include a physical drill, power cord, electronically motorized bone drill, or rotating bone shearing incision work unit.

In some embodiments, the surgical tools 154 include a scalpel for slicing, cutting, or osteotomy of bone during orthopedic procedure. The scalpel can be designed to provide clean cuts through osseous structures with minimal loss of viable bone while sparing adjacent elastic soft tissues largely unaffected while performing a slicing procedure. This is suited for spine applications where bone must be cut adjacent to the dura and neural structures. The scalpel does not rotate but performs cutting by an ultrasonically oscillating or forward/backward moving metal tip. Scalpels can prevent injuries caused by a drill in a spinal surgery such as complications such as nerve thermal injury, grasping soft tissue, tearing dura mater, and mechanical injury.

In some embodiments, stitches (also referred to as sutures) or a sterile, surgical thread is used to repair cuts or lacerations and is used to close incisions or hold body tissues together after a surgery or an injury. Stitches can involve the use of a needle along with an attached thread. Stitches can be of type absorbable (the stitches automatically break down harmlessly in the body over time without intervention) and non-absorbable (the stitches do not automatically break down over time and must be manually removed if not left indefinitely). Stitches can be based on material monofilament, multifilament, and barb. Stitches can be classified based on size. Stitches can be based on synthetic or natural material. Stitches can be coated or un-coated.

In some embodiments, the surgical tools 154 include a stapler used for fragment fixation when inter-fragmental screw fixation is not easy. When there is vast damage and a bone is broken into fragments, staples can be used between these fragments for internal fixation and bone reconstruction. For example, they can be used around joints in ankle and foot surgeries, in cases of soft tissue damage, or to attach tendons or ligaments to the bone for reconstruction surgery. Staplers can be made of surgical grade stainless steel or titanium, and they are thicker, stronger, and larger.

In some embodiments, other medical or surgical equipment, such as a set of articles, surgical tools, or objects, is used to implement or achieve an operation or activity. A medical equipment refers to an article, instrument, apparatus, or machine used for diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of a medical condition or disease, or to the detection, measurement, restoration, correction, or modification of structure/function of the body for some health purpose. The medical equipment can perform functions invasively or non-invasively. In some embodiments, the medical equipment includes components such as sensor/transducer, signal conditioner, display, data storage unit, etc. In some embodiments, the medical equipment includes a sensor to receive a signal from a measurand/patient; a transducer for converting one form of energy to electrical energy; a signal conditioner such as an amplifier, filter, etc., to convert the output from the transducer into an electrical value; a display to provide a visual representation of the measured parameter or quantity; and a storage system to store data which can be used for future reference. A medical equipment can perform diagnosis or provide therapy; for example, the equipment delivers air into the lungs of a patient who is physically unable to breathe, or breathes insufficiently, and moves it out of the lungs.

In some embodiments, the system includes a machine 156 to aid in breathing. The machine 156 can be a ventilator (also referred to as a respirator) that provides a patient with oxygen when they are unable to breathe on their own. A ventilator is required when a person is not able to breathe on their own. A ventilator can perform a function of gently pushing air into the lungs and allows it to come back out. The ventilator functions by delivery of positive pressure to force air into the lungs, while usual breathing uses negative pressure by the opening of the mouth, and air flows in. The ventilator can be required during surgery or after surgery. The ventilator can be required in case of respiratory failure due to acute respiratory distress syndrome, head injury, asthma, lung diseases, drug overdose, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, sepsis, spinal cord injury, cardiac arrest, etc., or during surgery. The ventilator can be used with a face mask (non-invasive ventilation, where the ventilation is required for a shorter duration of time) or with a breathing tube also referred to as an endotracheal tube (invasive ventilation, where the ventilation is required for a longer duration of time). Ventilator use can have some risks such as infections, fluid build-up, muscle weakness, lung damage, etc. The ventilator can be operated in various modes, such as assist-control ventilation (ACV), synchronized intermittent-mandatory ventilation (SIMV), pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV), pressure support ventilation (PSV), pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation (PCIRV), airway pressure release ventilation (APRV), etc. The ventilator can include a gas delivery system, power source, control system, safety feature, gas filter, and monitor.

In some embodiments, the machine 156 is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) used for the treatment of sleep apnea disorder in a patient. Sleep apnea refers to a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts while a patient is sleeping, often because throat/airways briefly collapse or something temporarily blocks them. Sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, such as high blood pressure and heart trouble. A CPAP instrument helps the patient with sleep apnea to breathe more easily during sleep by sending a steady flow of oxygen into the nose and mouth during sleep, which keeps the airways open and helps the patient to breathe normally. The CPAP machine can work by a compressor/motor which generates a continuous stream of pressurized air which travels through an air filter into a flexible tube. The tube delivers purified air into a mask sealed around the nose/mouth of the patient. The airstream from the instrument pushes against any blockages, opening the airways so lungs receive plenty of oxygen, and breathing does not stop as nothing obstructs oxygen. This helps the patient to not wake up to resume breathing. CPAP can have a nasal pillow mask, nasal mask, or full mask. CPAP instrument can include a motor, a cushioned mask, a tube that connects the motor to the mask, a headgear frame, and adjustable straps. The essential components can be a motor, a cushioned mask, and a tube that connects the motor to the mask.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes surgical supplies, consumables 158, or necessary supplies for the system 100 to provide care within the hospital or surgical environment. The consumables 158 can include gloves, gowns, masks, syringes, needles, sutures, staples, tubing, catheters, or adhesives for wound dressing, in addition to other surgical tools needed by doctors and nurses to provide care. Depending on the device, mechanical testing can be carried out in tensile, compression, or flexure; in dynamic or fatigue; via impact; or with the application of torsion. The consumables 158 can be disposable (e.g., time-saving, have no risk of healthcare-associated infections, and cost-efficient) or sterilizable (to avoid cross-contamination or risk of surgical site infections).

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a robotic surgical system 160 (sometimes referred to as a medical robotic system or a robotic system) that provides intelligent services and information to the operating room 102 and the console 108 by interacting with the environment, including human beings, via the use of various sensors, actuators, and human interfaces. The robotic surgical system 160 can be employed for automating processes in a wide range of applications, ranging from industrial (manufacturing), domestic, medical, service, military, entertainment, space, etc. The medical robotic system market is segmented by product type into surgical robotic systems, rehabilitative robotic systems, non-invasive radiosurgery robots, and hospital and pharmacy robotic systems. Robotic surgeries are performed using tele-manipulators (e.g., input devices 166 at the console 108), which use the surgeon's actions on one side to control one or more “effectors” on the other side. The medical robotic system 160 provides precision and can be used for remotely controlled, minimally invasive procedures. The robotic surgical system 160 includes computer-controlled electromechanical devices that work in response to controls (e.g., input devices 166 at the console 108) manipulated by the surgeons.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes equipment tracking systems 162, such as RFID, which is used to tag an instrument with an electronic tag and tracks it using the tag. Typically, this could involve a centralized platform that provides details such as location, owner, contract, and maintenance history for all equipment in real-time. A variety of techniques can be used to track physical assets, including RFID, global positioning system (GPS), Bluetooth low energy (BLE), barcodes, near-field communication (NFC), Wi-Fi, etc. The equipment tracking system 162 includes hardware components, such as RFID tags, GPS trackers, barcodes, and QR codes. The hardware component is placed on the asset, and it communicates with the software (directly or via a scanner), providing the software with data about the asset's location and properties. In some embodiments, the equipment tracking system 162 uses electromagnetic fields to transmit data from an RFID tag to a reader. Reading of RFID tags can be done by portable or mounted RFID readers. The read range for RFID varies with the frequency used. Managing and locating important assets is a key challenge for tracking medical equipment. Time spent searching for critical equipment can lead to expensive delays or downtime, missed deadlines and customer commitments, and wasted labor. The problem has previously been solved by using barcode labels or manual serial numbers and spreadsheets; however, these require manual labor. The RFID tag can be passive (smaller and less expensive, read ranges are shorter, have no power of their own, and are powered by the radio frequency energy transmitted from RFID readers/antennas) or active (larger and more expensive, read ranges are longer, have a built-in power source and transmitter of their own).

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes medical equipment, computers, software, etc., located in the doctor's office 110 that is communicably coupled to the operating room 102 over the network 104. For example, the medical equipment in the doctor's office 110 can include a microscope 116 used for viewing samples and objects that cannot be seen with an unaided eye. The microscope 116 can have components such as eyepieces, objective lenses, adjustment knobs, a stage, an illuminator, a condenser, or a diaphragm. The microscope 116 works by manipulating how light enters the eye using a convex lens, where both sides of the lens are curved outwards. When light reflects off of an object being viewed under the microscope 116 and passes through the lens, it bends toward the eye. This makes the object look bigger than it is. The microscope 116 can be compound (light-illuminated and the image seen with the microscope 116 is two-dimensional), dissection or stereoscope (light-illuminated and the image seen with the microscope 116 is three-dimensional), confocal (laser-illuminated and the image seen with the microscope 116 is on a digital computer screen), scanning electron (SEM) (electron-illuminated and the image seen with the microscope 116 is in black and white), or transmission electron microscope (TEM) (electron-illuminated and the image seen with the microscope 116 is the high magnification and high resolution).

The system 100 includes an electronic health records (EHR) database 106 that contains patient records. The EHR are a digital version of patients' paper charts. The EHR database 106 can contain more information than a traditional patient chart, including, but not limited to, a patients' medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, allergies, diagnostic imaging, lab results, etc. In some embodiments, the steps for each procedure disclosed herein are stored in the EHR database 106. Electronic health records can also include data collected from the monitors 112 from historical procedures. The EHR database 106 is implemented using components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3.

In some embodiments, the EHR database 106 includes a digital record of patients' health information, collected and stored systematically over time. The EHR database 106 can include demographics, medical history, history of present illness (HPI), progress notes, problems, medications, vital signs, immunizations, laboratory data, or radiology reports. Software (in memory 164) operating on the console 108 or implemented on the example computer system 300 (e.g., the instructions 304, 308 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3) are used to capture, store, and share patient data in a structured way. The EHR database 106 can be created and managed by authorized providers and can make health information accessible to authorized providers across practices and health organizations, such as laboratories, specialists, medical imaging facilities, pharmacies, emergency facilities, etc. The timely availability of EHR data enables healthcare providers to make more accurate decisions and provide better care to the patients by effective diagnosis and reduced medical errors. Besides providing opportunities to enhance patient care, the EHR database 106 can also be used to facilitate clinical research by combining patients' demographics into a large pool. For example, the EHR database 106 can support a wide range of epidemiological research on the natural history of disease, drug utilization, and safety, as well as health services research.

The console 108 is a computer device, such as a server, computer, tablet, smartphone, smart speaker, etc., implemented using components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the steps for each procedure disclosed herein are stored in memory 164 on the console 108 for execution.

In some embodiments, the operating room 102 or the console 108 includes high-definition monitors 124, which refer to displays in which a clearer picture is possible than with low-definition, low-resolution screens. The high-definition monitors 124 have a higher density of pixels per inch than past standard TV screens. Resolution for the high-definition monitors 124 can be 1280×720 pixels or more (e.g., Full HD, 1920×1080; Quad HD, 2560×1440; 4K, 3840×2160; 8K, 7680×4320 pixels). The high-definition monitor 124 can operate in progressive or interlaced scanning mode. High-definition monitors used in medical applications can offer improved visibility; allow for precise and safe surgery with rich color reproduction; provide suitable colors for each clinical discipline; provide better visibility, operability with a large screen and electronic zoom, higher image quality in low light conditions, better visualization of blood vessels and lesions, and high contrast at high spatial frequencies; be twice as sensitive as conventional sensors; and make it easier to determine tissue boundaries (fat, nerves, vessels, etc.).

In some embodiments, the console 108 includes an input interface or one or more input devices 166. The input devices 166 can include a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, any hand-held controller, or a hand-controlled manipulator, e.g., a tele-manipulator used to perform robotic surgery.

In some embodiments, the console 108, the equipment in the doctor's office 110, and the EHR database 106 are communicatively coupled to the equipment in the operating room 102 by a direct connection, such as ethernet, or wirelessly by the cloud over the network 104. The network 104 is the same as or similar to the network 314 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. For example, the console 108 can communicate with the robotic surgical system 160 using the network adapter 312 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example machine learning (ML) system 200, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The ML system 200 is implemented using components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. For example, the ML system 200 can be implemented on the console 108 using instructions programmed in the memory 164 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. Likewise, embodiments of the ML system 200 can include different and/or additional components or be connected in different ways. The ML system 200 is sometimes referred to as a ML module.

The ML system 200 includes a feature extraction module 208 implemented using components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the feature extraction module 208 extracts a feature vector 212 from input data 204. For example, the input data 204 can include one or more physiological parameters measured by the monitors 112 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. The feature vector 212 includes features 212 a, 212 b, . . . , 212 n. The feature extraction module 208 reduces the redundancy in the input data 204, e.g., repetitive data values, to transform the input data 204 into the reduced set of features 212, e.g., features 212 a, 212 b, . . . , 212 n. The feature vector 212 contains the relevant information from the input data 204, such that events or data value thresholds of interest can be identified by the ML model 216 by using this reduced representation. In some example embodiments, the following dimensionality reduction techniques are used by the feature extraction module 208: independent component analysis, Isomap, kernel principal component analysis (PCA), latent semantic analysis, partial least squares, PCA, multifactor dimensionality reduction, nonlinear dimensionality reduction, multilinear PCA, multilinear subspace learning, semidefinite embedding, autoencoder, and deep feature synthesis.

In alternate embodiments, the ML model 216 performs deep learning (also known as deep structured learning or hierarchical learning) directly on the input data 204 to learn data representations, as opposed to using task-specific algorithms. In deep learning, no explicit feature extraction is performed; the features 212 are implicitly extracted by the ML system 200. For example, the ML model 216 can use a cascade of multiple layers of nonlinear processing units for implicit feature extraction and transformation. Each successive layer uses the output from the previous layer as input. The ML model 216 can thus learn in supervised (e.g., classification) and/or unsupervised (e.g., pattern analysis) modes. The ML model 216 can learn multiple levels of representations that correspond to different levels of abstraction, wherein the different levels form a hierarchy of concepts. In this manner, the ML model 216 can be configured to differentiate features of interest from background features.

In alternative example embodiments, the ML model 216, e.g., in the form of a CNN generates the output 224, without the need for feature extraction, directly from the input data 204. The output 224 is provided to the computer device 228 or the console 108 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. The computer device 228 is a server, computer, tablet, smartphone, smart speaker, etc., implemented using components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the ML system 200 are stored in memory on the computer device 228 for execution. In other embodiments, the output 224 is displayed on the high-definition monitors 124 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1.

A CNN is a type of feed-forward artificial neural network in which the connectivity pattern between its neurons is inspired by the organization of a visual cortex. Individual cortical neurons respond to stimuli in a restricted region of space known as the receptive field. The receptive fields of different neurons partially overlap such that they tile the visual field. The response of an individual neuron to stimuli within its receptive field can be approximated mathematically by a convolution operation. CNNs are based on biological processes and are variations of multilayer perceptrons designed to use minimal amounts of preprocessing.

The ML model 216 can be a CNN that includes both convolutional layers and max pooling layers. The architecture of the ML model 216 can be “fully convolutional,” which means that variable sized sensor data vectors can be fed into it. For all convolutional layers, the ML model 216 can specify a kernel size, a stride of the convolution, and an amount of zero padding applied to the input of that layer. For the pooling layers, the model 216 can specify the kernel size and stride of the pooling.

In some embodiments, the ML system 200 trains the ML model 216, based on the training data 220, to correlate the feature vector 212 to expected outputs in the training data 220. As part of the training of the ML model 216, the ML system 200 forms a training set of features and training labels by identifying a positive training set of features that have been determined to have a desired property in question, and, in some embodiments, forms a negative training set of features that lack the property in question.

The ML system 200 applies ML techniques to train the ML model 216, that when applied to the feature vector 212, outputs indications of whether the feature vector 212 has an associated desired property or properties, such as a probability that the feature vector 212 has a particular Boolean property, or an estimated value of a scalar property. The ML system 200 can further apply dimensionality reduction (e.g., via linear discriminant analysis (LDA), PCA, or the like) to reduce the amount of data in the feature vector 212 to a smaller, more representative set of data.

The ML system 200 can use supervised ML to train the ML model 216, with feature vectors of the positive training set and the negative training set serving as the inputs. In some embodiments, different ML techniques, such as linear support vector machine (linear SVM), boosting for other algorithms (e.g., AdaBoost), logistic regression, naïve Bayes, memory-based learning, random forests, bagged trees, decision trees, boosted trees, boosted stumps, neural networks, CNNs, etc., are used. In some example embodiments, a validation set 232 is formed of additional features, other than those in the training data 220, which have already been determined to have or to lack the property in question. The ML system 200 applies the trained ML model 216 to the features of the validation set 232 to quantify the accuracy of the ML model 216. Common metrics applied in accuracy measurement include: Precision and Recall, where Precision refers to a number of results the ML model 216 correctly predicted out of the total it predicted, and Recall is a number of results the ML model 216 correctly predicted out of the total number of features that had the desired property in question. In some embodiments, the ML system 200 iteratively re-trains the ML model 216 until the occurrence of a stopping condition, such as the accuracy measurement indication that the ML model 216 is sufficiently accurate, or a number of training rounds having taken place.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer system, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Components of the example computer system 300 can be used to implement the monitors 112, the console 108, or the EHR database 106 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. In some embodiments, components of the example computer system 300 are used to implement the ML system 200 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2. At least some operations described herein can be implemented on the computer system 300.

The computer system 300 can include one or more central processing units (“processors”) 302, main memory 306, non-volatile memory 310, network adapters 312 (e.g., network interface), video displays 318, input/output devices 320, control devices 322 (e.g., keyboard and pointing devices), drive units 324 including a storage medium 326, and a signal generation device 320 that are communicatively connected to a bus 316. The bus 316 is illustrated as an abstraction that represents one or more physical buses and/or point-to-point connections that are connected by appropriate bridges, adapters, or controllers. The bus 316, therefore, can include a system bus, a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or PCI-Express bus, a HyperTransport or industry standard architecture (ISA) bus, a small computer system interface (SCSI) bus, a universal serial bus (USB), IIC (I2C) bus, or an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 1394 bus (also referred to as “Firewire”).

The computer system 300 can share a similar computer processor architecture as that of a desktop computer, tablet computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, game console, music player, wearable electronic device (e.g., a watch or fitness tracker), network-connected (“smart”) device (e.g., a television or home assistant device), virtual/augmented reality systems (e.g., a head-mounted display), or another electronic device capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify action(s) to be taken by the computer system 300.

While the main memory 306, non-volatile memory 310, and storage medium 326 (also called a “machine-readable medium”) are shown to be a single medium, the term “machine-readable medium” and “storage medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized/distributed database and/or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions 328. The term “machine-readable medium” and “storage medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the computer system 300.

In general, the routines executed to implement the embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented as part of an operating system or a specific application, component, program, object, module, or sequence of instructions (collectively referred to as “computer programs”). The computer programs typically include one or more instructions (e.g., instructions 304, 308, 328) set at various times in various memory and storage devices in a computer device. When read and executed by the one or more processors 302, the instruction(s) cause the computer system 300 to perform operations to execute elements involving the various aspects of the disclosure.

Moreover, while embodiments have been described in the context of fully functioning computer devices, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various embodiments are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms. The disclosure applies regardless of the particular type of machine or computer-readable media used to actually effect the distribution.

Further examples of machine-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or computer-readable media include recordable-type media such as volatile and non-volatile memory devices 310, floppy and other removable disks, hard disk drives, optical discs (e.g., Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROMS), Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs)), and transmission-type media such as digital and analog communication links.

The network adapter 312 enables the computer system 300 to mediate data in a network 314 with an entity that is external to the computer system 300 through any communication protocol supported by the computer system 300 and the external entity. The network adapter 312 can include a network adapter card, a wireless network interface card, a router, an access point, a wireless router, a switch, a multilayer switch, a protocol converter, a gateway, a bridge, a bridge router, a hub, a digital media receiver, and/or a repeater.

The network adapter 312 can include a firewall that governs and/or manages permission to access proxy data in a computer network and tracks varying levels of trust between different machines and/or applications. The firewall can be any number of modules having any combination of hardware and/or software components able to enforce a predetermined set of access rights between a particular set of machines and applications, machines and machines, and/or applications and applications (e.g., to regulate the flow of traffic and resource sharing between these entities). The firewall can additionally manage and/or have access to an access control list that details permissions including the access and operation rights of an object by an individual, a machine, and/or an application, and the circumstances under which the permission rights stand.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating an example robotic surgical system 400, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The robotic surgical system 400 is the same as or similar to the robotic surgical system 160 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. The robotic surgical system 400 can include components and features discussed in connection with FIGS. 1-3 and 4B-5. For example, the robotic surgical system 400 can include a console 420 with features of the console 108 of FIG. 1. Likewise, the components and features of FIG. 4A can be included or used with other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the description of the input devices of FIG. 4A applies equally to other input devices (e.g., input devices 166 of FIG. 1).

The robotic surgical system 400 includes a user device or console 420 (“console 420”), a surgical robot 440, and a computer or data system 450. The console 420 can be operated by a surgeon and can communicate with components in an operating room 402, remote devices/servers, a network 404, or databases (e.g., database 106 of FIG. 1) via the network 404. The robotic surgical system 400 can include surgical control software and can include a guidance system (e.g., ML guidance system, AI guidance system, etc.), surgical planning software, event detection software, surgical tool software, etc. or other features disclosed herein to perform surgical step(s) or procedures or implement steps of processes discussed herein.

The user 421 can use the console 420 to view and control the surgical robot 440. The console 420 can be communicatively coupled to one or more components disclosed herein and can include input devices operated by one, two, or more users. The input devices include one or more microphones, cameras, or other environment capture devices. In some embodiments, the microphones can be positioned to detect speech commands from the user. In some embodiments, the input devices can be hand-operated controls, but can alternatively, or additionally, include controls that can be operated by other parts of the user's body, such as, but not limited to, foot pedals. The console 420 can include a clutch pedal to allow the user 421 to disengage one or more sensor-actuator components from control by the surgical robot 440. The console 420 can also include display or output so that the one or more users can observe the patient being operated on, or the product being assembled, for example. In some embodiments, the display can show images, such as, but not limited to medical images, video, etc. For surgical applications, the images could include, but are not limited to, real-time optical images, real-time ultrasound, real-time OCT images and/or other modalities, or could include pre-operative images, such as MRI, CT, PET, etc. The various imaging modalities can be selectable, programmed, superimposed and/or can include other information superimposed in graphical and/or numerical or symbolic form.

The robotic surgical system 400 can include multiple consoles 420 to allow multiple users to simultaneously or sequentially perform portions of a surgical procedure. The term “simultaneous” herein refers to actions performed at the same time or in the same surgical step. The number and configuration of consoles 420 can be selected based on the surgical procedure to be performed, number and configurations of surgical robots, surgical team capabilities, or the like.

FIG. 4B illustrates an example console 420 of the robotic surgical system 400 of FIG. 4A, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The console 420 includes hand-operated input devices 424, 426, illustrated being held by the user's left and right hands 427, 428, respectively. A viewer 430 includes left and right eye displays 434, 436. The user can view, for example, the surgical site, instruments 437, 438, or the like. The user's movements of the input devices 424, 426 can be translated in real-time to, for example, mimic the movement of the user on the viewer 430 and display (e.g., display 124 of FIG. 1) and within the patient's body while the user can be provided with output, such as alerts, notifications, and information. The information can include, without limitation, surgical or implantation plans, patient vitals, modification to surgical plans, values, scores, predictions, simulations, and other output, data, and information disclosed herein. The console 420 can be located at the surgical room or at a remote location.

The viewer 430 can display at least a portion of a surgical plan, including past and future surgical steps, patient monitor readings (e.g., vitals), surgical room information (e.g., available team members, available surgical equipment, surgical robot status, or the like), images (e.g., pre-operative images, images from simulations, real-time images, instructional images, etc.), and other surgical assist information. In some embodiments, the viewer 430 can be a VR/AR headset, display, or the like. The robotic surgical system 400, illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4A, can further include multiple viewers 430 so that multiple members of a surgical team can view the surgical procedure. The number and configuration of the viewers 430 can be selected based on the configuration and number of surgical robots.

Referring again to FIG. 4A, the surgical robot 440 can include one or more controllers, computers, sensors, arms, articulators, joints, links, grippers, motors, actuators, imaging systems, effector interfaces, end effectors, or the like. For example, a surgical robot with a high number of degrees of freedom can be used to perform complicated procedures whereas a surgical robot with a low number of degrees of freedom can be used to perform simple procedures. The configuration (e.g., number of arms, articulators, degrees of freedom, etc.) and functionality of the surgical robot 440 can be selected based on the procedures to be performed.

The surgical robot 440 can operate in different modes selected by a user, set by the surgical plan, and/or selected by the robotic surgical system 400. In some procedures, the surgical robot 440 can remain in the same mode throughout a surgical procedure. In other procedures, the surgical robot 440 can be switched between modes any number of times. The configuration, functionality, number of modes, and type of modes can be selected based on the desired functionality and user control of the robotic surgical system 400. The robotic surgical system 400 can switch between modes based on one or more features, such as triggers, notifications, warnings, events, etc. Different example modes are discussed below. A trigger can be implemented in software to execute a jump to a particular instruction or step of a program. A trigger can be implemented in hardware, e.g., by applying a pulse to a trigger circuit.

In a user control mode, a user 421 controls, via the console 420, movement of the surgical robot 440. The user's movements of the input devices can be translated in real-time into movement of end effectors 452 (one identified).

In a semi-autonomous mode, the user 421 controls selected steps and the surgical robot 440 autonomously performs other steps. For example, the user 421 can control one robotic arm to perform one surgical step while the surgical robot 440 autonomously controls one or more of the other arms to concurrently perform another surgical step. In another example, the user 421 can perform steps suitable for physician control. After completion, the surgical robot 440 can perform steps involving coordination between three or more robotic arms, thereby enabling complicated procedures. For example, the surgical robot 440 can perform steps involving four or five surgical arms, each with one or more end effectors 452.

In an autonomous mode, the surgical robot 440 can autonomously perform steps under the control of the data system 450. The robotic surgical system 400 can be pre-programmed with instructions for performing the steps autonomously. For example, command instructions can be generated based on a surgical plan. The surgical robot 440 autonomously performs steps or the entire procedure. The user 421 and surgical team can observe the surgical procedure to modify or stop the procedure. Advantageously, complicated procedures can be autonomously performed without user intervention to enable the surgical team to focus and attend to other tasks. Although the robotic surgical system 400 can autonomously perform steps, the surgical team can provide information in real-time that is used to continue the surgical procedure. The information can include physician input, surgical team observations, and other data input.

The robotic surgical system 400 can also adapt to the user control to facilitate completion of the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the robotic surgical system 400 can monitor, via one or more sensors, at least a portion of the surgical procedure performed by the surgical robot 440. The robotic surgical system 400 can identify an event, such as a potential adverse surgical event, associated with a robotically performed surgical task. For example, a potential adverse surgical event can be determined based on acquired monitoring data and information for the end effector, such as surgical tool data from a medical device report, database, manufacturer, etc. The robotic surgical system 400 can perform one or more actions based on the identified event. The actions can include, without limitation, modification of the surgical plan to address the potential adverse surgical event, thereby reducing the risk of the event occurring.

In some embodiments, the robotic surgical system 400 can determine whether a detected event is potentially an adverse surgical event based on one or more criteria set by the robotic surgical system 400, user, or both. The adverse surgical event can be an adverse physiological event of the patient, surgical robotic malfunction, surgical errors, or other event that can adversely affect the patient or the outcome of the surgery. Surgical events can be defined and inputted by the user, surgical team, healthcare provider, manufacturer of the robotic surgery system, or the like.

The robotic surgical system 400 can take other actions in response to identification of an event. If the robotic surgical system 400 identifies an end effector malfunction or error, the robotic surgical system 400 can stop usage of the end effector and replace the malfunctioning component (e.g., surgical tool or equipment) to complete the procedure. The robotic surgical system 400 can monitor hospital inventory, available resources in the surgical room 402, time to acquire equipment (e.g., time to acquire replacement end effectors, surgical tools, or other equipment), and other information to determine how to proceed with surgery. The robotic surgical system 400 can generate multiple proposed surgical plans for continuing with the surgical procedure. The user and surgical team can review the proposed surgical plans to select an appropriate surgical plan. The robotic surgical system 400 can modify a surgical plan with one or more corrective surgical steps based on identified surgical complications, sensor readings, or the like.

The robotic surgical system 400 can retrieve surgical system information from a database to identify events. The database can describe, for example, maintenance of the robotic surgery system, specifications of the robotic surgery system, specifications of end effectors, surgical procedure information for surgical tools, consumable information associated with surgical tools, operational programs and parameters for surgical tools, monitoring protocols for surgical tools, or the like. The robotic surgical system 400 can use other information in databases disclosed herein to generate rules for triggering actions, identifying warnings, defining events, or the like. Databases can be updated with data (e.g., intraoperative data collected during the surgical procedure, simulation data, etc.) to intraoperatively adjust surgical plans, collect data for ML/AI training sets, or the like. Data from on-site and off-site simulations (e.g., pre- or post-operative virtual simulations, simulations using models, etc.) can be generated and collected.

The surgical robot 440 can include robotic arms 451 (one identified) with integrated or removable end effectors 452 (one identified). The end effectors 452 can include, without limitation, imagers (e.g., cameras, optical guides, etc.), robotic grippers, instrument holders, cutting instruments (e.g., cutters, scalpels, or the like), drills, cannulas, reamers, rongeurs, scissors, clamps, or other equipment or surgical tools disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the end effectors can be reusable or disposable surgical tools. The number and configuration of end effectors can be selected based on the configuration of the robotic system, procedure to be performed, surgical plan, etc. Imaging and viewing technologies can integrate with the surgical robot 440 to provide more intelligent and intuitive results.

The data system 450 can improve surgical planning, monitoring (e.g., via the display 422), data collection, surgical robotics/navigation systems, intelligence for selecting instruments, implants, etc. The data system 450 can execute, for example, surgical control instructions or programs for a guidance system (e.g., ML guidance system, AI guidance system, etc.), surgical planning programs, event detection programs, surgical tool programs, etc. For example, the data system 450 can increase procedure efficiency and reduce surgery duration by providing information insertion paths, surgical steps, or the like. The data system 450 can be incorporated into or include other components and systems disclosed herein.

The robotic surgical system 400 can be used to perform open procedures and minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopic surgeries, non-robotic laparoscopic/abdominal surgery, retroperitoneoscopy, arthroscopy, pelviscopy, nephroscopy, cystoscopy, cisternoscopy, sinoscopy, hysteroscopy, urethroscopy, and the like. The methods, components, apparatuses, and systems can be used with many different systems for conducting robotic or minimally invasive surgery. One example of a surgical system and surgical robots which can incorporate methods and technology is the DA VINCI® system available from Intuitive Surgical, Inc.® of Sunnyvale, Calif. However, other surgical systems, robots, and apparatuses can be used.

The robotic surgical system 400 can perform one or more simulations using selected entry port placements and/or robot positions, to allow a surgeon or other user to practice procedures. The practice session can be used to generate, modify, or select a surgical plan. In some embodiments, the system can generate a set of surgical plans for physician consideration. The physician can perform practice sessions for each surgical plan to determine and select a surgical plan to be implemented. In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein can perform virtual surgeries (simulations) to recommend a surgical plan. The physician can review the virtual simulations to accept or reject the recommended surgical plan. The physician can modify surgical plans pre-operative or intraoperatively.

Embodiments can provide a means for mapping the surgical path for neurosurgery procedures that minimize damage through AI mapping. The software for AI is trained to track the least destructive pathway. The physician can make an initial incision based on a laser marking on the skin that illuminates the optimal site. Next, a robot can make a small hole and insert surgical equipment (e.g., guide wires, cannulas, etc.) that highlights the best pathway. This pathway minimizes the amount of tissue damage that occurs during surgery. Mapping can also be used to identify one or more insertion points associated with a surgical path. Mapping can be performed before treatment, during treatment, and/or after treatment. For example, pre-treatment and post-treatment mapping can be compared by the surgeon and/or ML/AI system. The comparison can be used to determine next steps in a procedure and/or further train the ML/AI system.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating subcomponents of the robotic surgical system 400 of FIG. 4A in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. The data system 450 has one or more processors 504, a memory 506, input/output devices 508, and/or subsystems and other components 510. The processor 504 can perform any of a wide variety of computing processing, image processing, robotic system control, plan generation or modification, and/or other functions. Components of the data system 450 can be housed in a single unit (e.g., within a hospital or surgical room) or distributed over multiple, interconnected units (e.g., though a communications network). The components of the data system 450 can accordingly include local and/or remote devices.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the processor 504 can include a plurality of functional modules 512, such as software modules, for execution by the processor 504. The various implementations of source code (e.g., in a conventional programming language) can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium or can be embodied on a transmission medium in a carrier wave. The modules 512 of the processor 504 can include an input module 514, a database module 516, a process module 518, an output module 520, and, optionally, a display module 524 for controlling the display.

In operation, the input module 514 accepts an operator input 524 via the one or more input devices, and communicates the accepted information or selections to other components for further processing. The database module 516 organizes plans (e.g., robotic control plans, surgical plans, etc.), records (e.g., maintenance records, patient records, historical treatment data, etc.), surgical equipment data (e.g., instrument specifications), control programs, and operating records and other operator activities, and it also facilitates the storing and retrieving of these records to and from a data storage device (e.g., internal memory 506, external databases, etc.). Any type of database organization can be utilized, including a flat file system, hierarchical database, relational database, distributed database, etc.

In the illustrated example, the process module 518 can generate control variables based on sensor readings 526 from sensors (e.g., end effector sensors of the surgical robot 440, patient monitoring equipment, etc.), operator input 524 (e.g., input from the surgeon console 420 and/or other data sources), and the output module 520 can communicate operator input to external computing devices and control variables to controllers. The display module 522 can be configured to convert and transmit processing parameters, sensor readings 526, output signals 528, input data, treatment profiles, and prescribed operational parameters through one or more connected display devices, such as a display screen, touchscreen, printer, speaker system, etc.

In various embodiments, the processor 504 can be a standard central processing unit or a secure processor. Secure processors can be special-purpose processors (e.g., reduced instruction set processor) that can withstand sophisticated attacks that attempt to extract data or programming logic. The secure processors can have debugging pins that enable an external debugger to monitor the secure processor's execution or registers. In other embodiments, the system can employ a secure field-program mable gate array, a smartcard, or other secure devices.

The memory 506 can be standard memory, secure memory, or a combination of both memory types. By employing a secure processor and/or secure memory, the system can ensure that data and instructions are both highly secure and that sensitive operations such as decryption are shielded from observation. In various embodiments, the memory 506 can be flash memory, secure serial EEPROM, secure field-programmable gate array, or secure application-specific integrated circuit. The memory 506 can store instructions for causing the surgical robot 440 to perform acts disclosed herein.

The input/output device 508 can include, without limitation, a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, a stylus, a push button, a switch, a potentiometer, a scanner, an audio component such as a microphone, or any other device suitable for accepting user input and can also include one or more video monitors, a medium reader, an audio device such as a speaker, any combination thereof, and any other device or devices suitable for providing user feedback. For example, if an applicator moves an undesirable amount during a treatment session, the input/output device 508 can alert the subject and/or operator via an audible alarm. The input/output device 508 can be a touch screen that functions as both an input device and an output device.

The data system 450 can output instructions to command the surgical robot 440 and communicate with one or more databases 2600. The surgical robot 440 or other components disclosed herein can communicate to send collected data (e.g., sensor readings, instrument data, surgical robot data, etc.) to the database 500. This information can be used to, for example, create new training data sets, generate plans, perform future simulations, post-operatively analyze surgical procedures, or the like. The data system 450 can be incorporated, used with, or otherwise interact with other databases, systems, and components disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the data system 450 can be incorporated into the surgical robot 440 or other systems disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the data system 450 can be located at a remote location and can communicate with a surgical robot via one or more networks. For example, the data system 450 can communicate with a hospital via a network, such as a wide area network, a cellular network, etc. One or more local networks at the hospital can establish communication channels between surgical equipment within the surgical room.

A surgical program or plan (“surgical plan”) can include, without limitation, patient data (e.g., pre-operative images, medical history, physician notes, etc.), imaging programs, surgical steps, mode switching programs, criteria, goals, or the like. The imaging programs can include, without limitation, AR/VR programs, identification programs (e.g., fiducial identification programs, tissue identification programs, target tissue identification programs, etc.), image analysis programs, or the like. Surgical programs can define surgical procedures or a portion thereof. For example, surgical programs can include end effector information, positional information, surgical procedure protocols, safety settings, surgical robot information (e.g., specifications, usage history, maintenance records, performance ratings, etc.), order of surgical steps, acts for a surgical step, feedback (e.g., haptic feedback, audible feedback, etc.), or the like. The mode switching programs can be used to determine when to switch the mode of operation of the surgical robot 440. For example, mode switching programs can include threshold or configuration settings for determining when to switch the mode of operation of the surgical robot 440. Example criteria can include, without limitation, thresholds for identifying events, data for evaluating surgical steps, monitoring criteria, patient health criteria, physician preference, or the like. The goals can include intraoperative goals, post-operative goals (e.g., target outcomes, metrics, etc.), goal rankings, etc. Monitoring equipment or the surgical team can determine goal progress, whether a goal has been achieved, etc. If an intraoperative goal is not met, the surgical plan can be modified in real-time so that, for example, the post-operative goal is achieved. The post-operative goal can be redefined intraoperatively in response to events, such as surgical complications, unplanned changes to patient's vitals, etc.

The surgical plan can also include healthcare information, surgical team information, assignments for surgical team members, or the like. The healthcare information can include surgical room resources, hospital resources (e.g., blood banks, standby services, available specialists, etc.), local or remote consultant availability, insurance information, or cost information (e.g., surgical room costs, surgical team costs, etc.).

The systems disclosed herein can generate pre-operative plans and simulation plans. Pre-operative plans can include scheduling of equipment, surgical room, staff, surgical teams, and resources for surgery. The systems can retrieve information from one or more databases to generate the pre-operative plan based on physician input, insurance information, regulatory information, reimbursements, patient medical history, patient data, or the like. Pre-operative plans can be used to generate surgical plans, cost estimates, scheduling of consultants and remote resources, or the like. For example, a surgical plan can be generated based on available resources scheduled by the pre-operative plans. If a resource becomes unavailable, the surgical plan can be adjusted for the change in resources. The healthcare provider can be alerted if additional resources are recommended. The systems disclosed herein can generate simulation plans for practicing surgical procedures. On approval, a surgeon can virtually simulate a procedure using a console or another simulation device. Plans (e.g., surgical plans, implantation plans, etc.) can be generated and modified based on the surgeon's performance and simulated outcome.

The systems disclosed herein can generate post-operative plans for evaluating surgical outcomes, developing physical therapy and/or rehab programs and plans, etc. The post-operative plans can be modified by the surgical team, primary care provider, and others based on the recovery of the patient. In some embodiments, systems generate pre-operative plans, surgical plans, and post-operative plans prior to beginning a surgical procedure. The system then modifies one or more of the plans as additional information is provided. For example, one or more steps of the methods discussed herein can generate data that is incorporated into the plan. ML data sets to be incorporated into the plan generate a wide range of variables to be considered when generating plans. Plans can be generated to optimize patient outcome, reduce or limit the risk of surgical complications, mitigate adverse events, manage costs for surgical procedures, reduce recovery time, or the like. The healthcare provider can modify how plans are generated over time to further optimize based on one or more criteria.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example robotic surgical system for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments. A robotic “action” refers to one or more physical movements of a surgical robot (e.g., the surgical robot 602), such as aligning a surgical implant component or a surgical tool 154 (see FIG. 1), initiating the rotation of a rotary surgical tool, applying an axial force to a surgical tool 154, etc. The system of FIG. 6 includes the surgical robot 602 and a cloud computing system 618. The system is implemented using the components of the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. Likewise, embodiments of the system can include different and/or additional components or can be connected in different ways.

The surgical robot 602 is a robotic system designed to assist a surgeon in performing a surgical operation on a patient. The surgical robot 602 includes at least one controller 608 and any of a robotic arm 604 having an end effector 606 or an imaging device 616. The surgical robot 602 can further include a user interface for accepting control inputs from a user, such as a surgeon or other medical professional, and a communications interface 614 for transmitting and receiving data to and from the cloud 618 for the purpose of training an AI (see FIG. 2) operating within the surgical robot 602 or receiving remote commands from a remote user. In some embodiments, the user interface of the surgical system receives speech input from a surgeon. The speech input is associated with a surgical procedure being performed on a patient's body by the surgical robot 602. The user interface includes at least one of a display, a microphone, a speaker, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackpad, or a touchscreen. The AI can also be implemented external to the surgical robot 602.

The robotic arm 604 is a mechanically actuated arm or lever with at least two degrees of freedom. The robotic arm 604 will typically include at least one end effector 606 or an imaging device 616 and may include both an end effector 606 and an imaging device 616. The robotic arm 604 may additionally be capable of changing the end effector 606 to facilitate multiple functions and operation of a variety of tools.

The robotic arm 604 may be manually controlled or operated in an autonomous or semi-autonomous mode. The surgical robot 602 may have one robotic arm 604 or multiple robotic arms 604, each of which may be operated independently by one or more users or autonomous systems or a combination of users and autonomous systems. The end effector 606 is the end of a robotic arm 604 which is conducting work. The end effector 606 is typically a tool or device for interacting with a physical object and may be a surgical tool intended for acting upon or within a patient or may be a gripping device for securing a separate surgical tool to a robotic arm 604. The end effector 606 may be permanently affixed to the end of a robotic arm 604 or may be detachable allowing for a system of interchangeable end effectors 606 which may alternatively be selected and swapped by a single robotic arm 604 or multiple robotic arms 604.

The end effector 606 may include features such as lights or other illumination devices, surgical tools, imaging devices 616, etc. The controller 608 is a logic device or processor for performing a series of logic operations. Traditionally, the controller 608 includes transistors arranged on a silicon substrate, although the controller 608 may include any materials and substrates which form a logic circuit. Common logic circuit elements include OR gates, AND gates, XOR gates, NOR gates, NAND gates, etc. The controller 608 may be a microcontroller or a central processing unit (CPU) in a computer. Similarly, a graphical processing unit (GPU) may be used as a controller. The controller 608 may additionally include the logic element of a quantum computer. The controller 608 uses logic operations to perform computations and may be in communication with a memory 610, for storing data, and a communications interface 614, for sending and receiving data to and from other controllers or devices.

The memory 610 is a medium for storing data. The memory 610 may be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM) which is a cache used by the controller 608 for temporary storage of data for use in computations or persistent memory, such as a solid-state drive (SSD), hard disk drive (HDD), or other storage devices including tape drives, flash drives, memory cards, optical drives such as compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), or Blu-ray disc, or data storage on nontraditional mediums. The microphone 612 is a device which converts sound waves into an analog or digital signal. Most commonly, the microphone 612 uses a diaphragm, or physical surface which is caused to oscillate when contacted by sound waves. The microphone 612 may additionally have a diaphragm of varying size. The microphone 612 can include any of liquid microphones, carbon microphones, fiber optic microphones, dynamic microphones, electret microphones, ribbon microphones, laser microphones, condenser microphones, and crystal microphones. The microphone 612 may be omnidirectional, or it may be directional, having a cardioid pickup pattern. The directionality may be increased with a super cardioid or hyper cardioid pickup pattern and may similarly include a combination of directionality as with bidirectional microphones.

The communications interface 614, also known as a network interface, is an interface for a device or the controller 608 to communicate with another device, controller, or network resource such as a cloud server or drive. The communications interface 614 may be wired, such as ethernet cables or USB cables, or wireless as in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communications (NFC), 4G long-term evolution (LTE), 5G, etc. The imaging device 616 is any device capable of detecting sound or electromagnetic waves and assembling a visual representation of the detected waves. Imaging devices 616 may collect waves from any part of the electromagnetic spectrum or sounds at any range of frequencies, often as a matrix of independently acquired measurements which each represent a pixel of a two- or three-dimensional image. These measurements may be taken simultaneously or in series via a scanning process or a combination of methods. Some pixels of an image produced by the imaging device 616 may be interpolated from direct measurements representing adjacent pixels in order to increase the resolution of a generated image.

The cloud 618 is a distributed network of computers including servers and databases. The cloud 618 may be a private cloud, where access is restricted by isolating the network such as preventing external access, or by using encryption to limit access to only authorized users. Alternatively, the cloud 618 may be a public cloud where access is widely available via the internet. A public cloud may not be secured or may include limited security features. The procedure database 620 stores data from previous surgical procedures performed by a surgeon or a robot controlled by an AI (see FIG. 2) or alternatively a combination of human and robotically automated methods. The data may include patient data, the equipment used, sequence of events, and the results of each event including patient outcomes. The data may additionally include annotations and observations by the surgeon performing or supervising the surgery or other medical professionals before, during, or after the procedure. Additionally, the procedure database 620 may include anatomical data of the patient undergoing the surgical procedure such as images or video of the surgical site and surrounding tissues. The data may include visible light images or may alternatively include ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, computer aided tomography (CAT) scans, etc.

The surgery module 622 is used by the surgical robot 602 to receive speech input from a surgeon and determine the instructions intended to be completed by the surgical robot 602 based on the provided speech input using natural language processing. The surgery module 622 further triggers the training module 624 to train a tool action module and an action module 626 which receives the surgeon's instructions, generates an action sequence and parameters necessary to complete the instructions, and converses with the surgeon to receive approval to execute the action sequence. Alternatively, the surgeon disapproves of the action sequence and elects to perform the action intended by the spoken input. The training module 624 accesses the procedure database 618 to acquire data from previous surgeries in order to train at least one ML algorithm (see FIG. 2) including a tool action model to identify the parameters and instructions for controlling the surgical robot 602 during a surgery. In some embodiments, live surgical procedures are monitored. An ML model (see FIG. 2) is trained based on the live surgical procedures while the live surgical procedures are being performed. For example, in addition to data from previous surgeries, the training module 624 may monitor live surgeries.

A surgery is segmented into a series of discrete actions based on a surgeon's commands given during or after the surgery has been completed. The surgical robot 602 receives the surgeon's speech input and uses a natural language processing model to determine the surgeon's intended action and further predicts the action sequence and parameters to be used in the completion of the surgeon's intended action. The action may be completed by the surgical robot 602, a surgeon, or a surgeon working in tandem with a surgical robot 602. The robot then determines whether the prediction was correct and stores the result in the procedure database. The action module 626 is used by the surgical robot 602 to receive an instruction provided by a surgeon and generates an action sequence and parameters necessary to identify anatomical features of the patient, position, and further control the operation of robotic arms 604, end effectors 606, imaging devices 616, etc., to perform the instructions provided by the surgeon.

In some embodiments, the surgical system of FIG. 6 determines that the surgical robot 602 is capable to perform the one or more actions of the surgical procedure based on components of the surgical robot 602 and the parameters. Responsive to determining that the surgical robot 602 is capable to perform the one or more actions, the surgical system transmits a notification to the surgeon using a user interface that the surgical robot 602 is capable to perform a portion of the surgical procedure indicated by the instruction from the surgeon. Responsive to transmitting the notification, the surgical system performs the one or more actions of the surgical procedure on the patient's body in accordance with the parameters using the surgical robot 602. For example, the action module 626 seeks approval of the action sequence and parameters from the surgeon and may receive adjustments to the action sequence and parameters prior to executing the action sequence, or alternatively, will receive further instructions to do nothing and allow the surgeon to perform the actions requested by the surgeon's instructions.

FIG. 7 is a table illustrating an example procedure database 620, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The procedure database 620 is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6. The procedure database 620 stores data from previous surgical procedures performed by a surgeon or a robot controlled by an AI or alternatively a combination of human and robotically automated methods. The data may include patient data, equipment used, sequence of events, and results of each event including patient outcomes. The data may additionally include annotations and observations by the surgeon performing or supervising the surgery or other medical professionals before, during, or after the procedure. Additionally, the procedure database 620 may include anatomical data of the patient undergoing the surgical procedure such as images or video of the surgical site and surrounding tissues. The data may include visible light images or may alternatively include ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, CAT scans, etc.

In some embodiments, one or more processors of the surgical system of FIG. 6 store information describing the speech input received, the at least one instruction extracted from the speech input, and the one or more actions generated in the historical data describing previous surgical procedures. For example, the procedure database is used by the training module 624 and the action module 626 and is populated by the surgery module 622 and the training module 624. The procedure database 620 may additionally be populated by surgeons and other medical professionals or by referencing surgery logs or patient medical records.

The procedure database 620 can further include speech input associated with the prompts or other stored data. The speech input can be multi-party speech input, individual speech input, or combinations thereof for general commands, specific instructions, or the like. In some user-trained embodiments, the procedure database 620 includes speech input from a user corresponding to each of the prompts. When the system receives speech input from the user, the system can match the received speech input to the stored speech input using speech recognition techniques disclosed herein. If the system determines that a received speech input does not match a stored speech input, the system can analyze the received speech input based on multi-party speech inputs to identify the prompt or command. This allows the system to perform speech recognition for untrained prompts. For some surgical procedures, the system can predict a set of surgical steps that may be performed for a patient. The system can identify any prompts for which there is no reference speech input for a user that will be controlling the system. In response to identifying untrained prompts, the system can notify the user that speech recognition training is recommended. The system can then perform one or more training routines to obtain speech input for the untrained prompts. This allows the system to have reference speech input for each of the prompts that may be needed to complete the surgical procedure or a portion thereof. For example, the system may be untrained with respect to the scheduled user speech input regarding irrigation. The system can identify that the surgical procedure includes a step of irrigating the site in which water flows through an outlet and endoscope. The system can notify the surgeon that training is recommended. The system can display the prompt or command “irrigate the site” to be read by the surgeon. The surgeon can read the prompt or command which is detected by the system to generate one or more audio signals. The audio signals can be stored as reference speech input used during the surgical procedure.

The procedure database 620 can include reference speech input for multiple users that will participate in a surgical procedure. Speech input can be received via one or more microphones at the surgical room, via a network (e.g., a wireless network), or other source. For example, speech input can be provided via a network when performing remote surgery. This allows at least a portion of a surgical procedure to be voice controlled via telesurgery in which the remote user is capable of controlling robotic surgery using speech input. Advantageously, the remote surgeon can control surgical steps without requiring access to or use of specific input devices. The system can associate users with different surgical procedures or steps. The system can then use the association to identify commands and surgical actions based on the identity of the user.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the process of FIG. 8 is performed by the surgery module 622. The surgery module 622 is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6. In other embodiments, the process of FIG. 8 is performed by a computer system, e.g., the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. Particular entities, for example, the console 108 or the robotic surgical system 160, perform some or all of the steps of the process in other embodiments. The console 108 and the robotic surgical system 160 are illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. Likewise, embodiments can include different and/or additional steps, or perform the steps in different orders.

In step 802, the surgery module 622 triggers or prompts the training module 624 (see FIG. 6) to train or update a tool automation model. In some embodiments, the tool automation model is implemented using an ML model (see FIG. 2). The tool automation model includes a natural language processing model for interpreting the speech input provided by a surgeon or other medical professional and determining the instructions intended by the speech input, and further a tool action model for determining the action sequence to be executed in response to the speech input. In some embodiments, the tool action model is implemented using an ML model (see FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the tool automation model and the tool action model are trained using historical surgical data from the procedure database 620 (see FIGS. 6, 7) including spoken commands (speech input), the instructions intended by the commands, and a sequence of actions to be completed to execute the commands.

In step 804, the surgery module 622 receives a trained tool automation model from the training module 624. In some embodiments, one or more processors of the surgical system of FIG. 6 extract at least one instruction from speech input using natural language processing. For example, the tool automation model includes a natural language processing model for interpreting the speech input of a surgeon received by a microphone 612 (see FIG. 6) and then translating it into instructions which are used by a tool action model to determine the sequence of actions required to execute the instructions. In some embodiments, generating one or more actions for the surgical robot 602 includes identifying, by one or more processors of the surgical system of FIG. 6, anatomical structures of a patient's body based on anatomical data captured by at least one imaging device 616 of the surgical system. The one or more processors determine at least one path for moving a surgical tool 154 (see FIG. 1) through the patient's body during the surgical procedure. For example, the tool action model further uses anatomical data captured by at least one imaging device 616 to identify anatomical structures and determine a path for navigating a surgical tool 154 (see FIG. 1) through a patient's body and further tool parameters for operating the surgical tools in order to execute the surgeon's speech input.

In some embodiments, the tool automation model interprets speech input based on anatomical data by, for example, identifying one or more anatomical features in the anatomical data and matching those features to the speech input. The system thus matches speech input to features of the anatomical data. In some embodiments, the tool automation model identifies anatomical features in the anatomical data to generate a set of candidate speech inputs. When the system receives speech input, the system can compare the received speech input to the candidate speech input to identify matches. The system can then identify the anatomical features based on the matches. The ML techniques disclosed herein (see FIG. 2) can be used to train the surgery module 622 based on training sets including anatomical data, speech input, and surgical plans.

In some embodiments, the system of FIG. 6 provides voice control functionality for the surgical tools 154 (see FIG. 1). The surgical robot 602 of FIG. 6 can further include a user interface for accepting speech inputs from a user, such as a surgeon or other medical professional and a communications interface 614 for transmitting and receiving data to and from the cloud 618 for the purpose of training an artificial intelligence (see FIG. 2) operating within the surgical robot 602 or receiving commands from a remote user or an artificial intelligence existing external to the surgical robot 602.

In step 806, the surgery module 622 monitors the microphone 612 for speech input issued by a surgeon or other medical professional. The microphone 612 may be worn by the surgeon, such as a lapel microphone or as a headset, or may be a part of the surgical robot 602 (see FIG. 6). Alternatively, the microphone 612 may be a discrete component located in the operating room and connected to the surgical robot 602. In an embodiment, the input is any sound above a threshold ambient level. In an alternate embodiment, the speech input is indicated by an activation word or phrase spoken by the surgeon, such as “surgical robot.” In further embodiments, the speech input is received when a surgeon, or other assisting personnel, presses a push-to-talk button. The surgery module 622 can communicate with any number of microphones to, for example, receive input from multiple users, perform noise cancellation, monitor surgical robot performance, or the like. The surgery module 622 can identify users based on the position of the microphones. For example, a first microphone can be worn by a surgeon and a second microphone can be worn by a nurse. The surgery module 622 can receive surgical input from the first microphone and non-surgical input from the second microphone. In telesurgery embodiments, the surgery module 622 can receive data from a remote microphone 612 of a smartphone, computer, or other remote device. The user can select the activation word or phrase for providing commands to the surgical system. Different users can have different activation words for coordinating speech input between multiple users.

In step 808, the surgery module 622 receives a command from the surgeon. In a preferred embodiment, the command is given as speech input which is received by a microphone 612 and converted into an analog or digital signal which is used by the surgical robot 602 to determine the intended instructions and sequence of actions needed to execute the intended instructions. The audio signals from the microphone 612 may alternatively be provided to a cloud server where a natural language processing model may translate the audio signal into instructions which can then be used by a tool action model to determine a sequence of actions to execute the instructions. For example, the surgery module 622 receives an instruction from a surgeon to “biopsy the polyp” during a colonoscopy.

In step 810, the surgery module 622 identifies the instructions intended by the commands given by the surgeon. The instructions are identified by using a natural language processing model to convert the audio signal received by a microphone 612 into instructions which can be interpreted by a tool action model. For example, the instructions for a command from the surgeon to “biopsy the polyp” include identifying and removing a polyp in view of the imaging device 616 and saving the sample for testing. During the instruction identification process, the surgical robot 602 may ask questions to the surgeon such as, “Should the polyp be removed with forceps?” or “Is the polyp approximately 2 mm in size and located in the upper right quadrant of the screen?” to which the surgeon can provide further commands clarifying the instructions. The clarifying commands or feedback are also received as speech input. The surgical robot 602 can ask questions using audible input, or a screen, such as a screen of the consoles 108, 420 of FIGS. 1 and 4A. The surgeon can perform surgical steps using a console and simultaneously provide speech input to train the surgery module 622 for position-specific techniques. In some training protocols, a surgeon verbally describes surgical steps being performed in real-time to enable the surgery module 622 to correlate surgical steps with surgeon-preferred speech input.

The system can store user profiles that include, without limitation, speech recognition profiles, reference speech input, speech characteristics, user-specific surgical techniques, user preferences, etc. The speech characteristics can include, without limitation, volume, pace, resonance, intonation, pitch, or the like. Acoustic models, language models, pronunciation dictionaries, feature extractors, feature vectors, decoders, word output generators, or the like can be used to recognize speech based on acoustic models, language models, etc.

The natural language processing model performs natural language processing that includes, without limitation, named entity recognition (e.g., identifying words, phrases, etc.), co-reference resolution, sentiment analysis, tagging (e.g., speech tagging, grammatical tagging, etc.), speech recognition, natural language generation, and/or natural language processing steps. The named entity recognition identifies prompts or phrases commonly used by the surgeon. The system can perform named entity recognition based on captured data (e.g., images captured by cameras) to increase accuracy. For example, the named entity recognition can identify a “tool” of speech input as the tool visible to the surgeon via the monitor console. The system can perform co-reference resolution steps to identify multiple words, such as “tool,” “end effector,” “instrument,” etc., as referring to the same device. Sentiment analysis is used to extract subjective qualities, such as excitement, calmness, or other subjective qualities that may indicate the status of the surgical procedure. Tagging is performed to determine a particular word or string of text based on its use in context. For example, tagging can be used to identify verbs, nouns, etc. For example, if a surgeon states “move the scalpel two inches,” tagging can be used to identify the scalpel as a noun and “move” as the verb.

Speech recognition is used for speech-to-text processing to convert speech input into text data. The text data is analyzed using text data processing techniques. In some embodiments, natural language processing includes word sense disambiguation to determine the meaning of a word or phrase having multiple meanings through a process of, for example, semantic analysis. The surgical plan, anatomical data, and other information can be used in combination with speech processing techniques to perform word sense disambiguation. The surgery module discussed herein can store databases for surgical techniques to perform word sense disambiguation comparisons.

In some embodiments, the system can identify a user associated with the speech input and can determine whether the user is authorized to control the robotic system. In response to determining that the user is authorized, the system can generate one or more actions to be performed by the robot as discussed below. The surgery module 622 can analyze user profiles for each of the surgical team members to perform user identification, authorization, etc. The surgery module 622 can be trained using pre-operative and intraoperative speech training based on the surgical plan, obtained anatomical data, or the like.

The surgery module 622 can be used in telesurgery applications by, for example, receiving speech input from a physician at a remote location. A remote physician can provide speech input via a telephone connected to a computer, network device, smartphone, tablet, or other speech input device. This allows a physician to control at least a portion of telesurgery procedures using speech input while viewing the procedure on a remote computing device. Advantageously, physicians can control surgical procedures without having access to joysticks or other robotic-specific inputs. In some procedures, a physician at the operating room can control a portion of a surgical procedure and a remote physician can control another portion of the surgical procedure. This allows coordination between local and remote physicians. In some procedures, the surgery module 622 can receive input from both physicians and determine which input controls the instruments of the robotic surgery system. To increase accuracy, the surgery module 622 can use a user-specific speech processing module for each physician. The user-specific speech processing module can be trained pre-operatively using speech input from each physician.

In some embodiments, one or more processors of the surgical system of FIG. 6 generate one or more actions of a surgical procedure to be performed by the surgical robot 602. The one or more actions include parameters to control the surgical robot 602 during the surgical procedure. The one or more actions are generated using a machine learning model (see FIG. 2) of the surgical system based on at least one instruction. The machine learning model is trained based on historical data describing previous surgical procedures (see FIG. 7). In some embodiments, performing one or more actions includes controlling, by the surgical robot 602, at least one of a robotic arm 604, an end effector 606, or an imaging device 616 of the surgical robot 602 in accordance with the parameters. For example, in step 812, the surgery module 622 triggers the action module 626 to receive the instructions identified and determine an action sequence to be performed and the appropriate parameters for controlling one or more robotic arms 604, end effectors 606, imaging devices 616, etc. The action module 626 can include an ML module. The action module 626 further seeks approval of the action sequence and parameters from the surgeon prior to completion of the action sequence. For example, the surgery module 622 prompts the action module 626 with the instructions to identify and remove a polyp in view of the imaging device 616 and save the sample for testing.

In step 814, the surgery module 622 receives an action status from the action module 626. The action status indicates whether the surgical robot 602 successfully performed the action requested by the surgeon's commands. For example, the action status is “complete.” In another example, the action status is “incomplete.”

In step 816, the surgery module 622 determines whether the action was successfully completed or was not completed. The action was completed if the action status received from the action module 626 is complete. Alternatively, the action was not completed if the action status received from the action module 626 is incomplete or is anything other than completed to include partially completed, or unsuccessfully attempted, etc. For example, the action is completed because the action status received from the action module 626 is complete because the action sequence of removing the polyp was successfully performed by the surgical robot 602. In another example, the action was not completed because the action status received indicates an unsuccessful attempt: though the surgeon approved the action sequence and parameters, the surgical robot 602 was unable to remove the polyp after attempting three times with the approved action sequence and parameters. Alternatively, the surgeon or surgical robot 602 may have stopped the action sequence prior to completion as it was determined that allowing the surgical robot 602 to complete the action may result in harm to the patient. In some embodiments, the surgery module 622 can be retrained based on successful completion of surgical actions. For example, the surgical module can be retrained using, for example, user-inputted approval of the generated actions, completed steps, or the like.

In step 818, the surgery module 622 enables a surgeon or an assisting medical professional to perform a surgical step. For example, the step is the removal of a polyp from a colon. The surgeon removes the polyp by manually inserting forceps through a tool channel in the endoscope, positioning the forceps around the base of the polyp, applying a gripping force to the polyp, and pulling the polyp away from the colon. The surgeon further extracts the removed polyp via the tool channel to be saved as a sample for pathology testing.

In step 820, the surgery module 622 updates the procedure database 620 with the surgeon's command, the intended instructions, and action sequence and parameters determined by the surgical robot 602, and whether the command was successfully completed by the surgical robot 602 or the surgeon. Additionally, the conversation which occurred between the surgeon and surgical robot 602 and any actions taken, or changes made to the action sequence or parameters as a result of the conversation, may be saved to the procedure database 620. Images of the patient's anatomy acquired by at least one imaging device 616 may also be saved. For example, the original command to “remove the polyp” and the intended action to identify and remove a polyp in view of the imaging device 616, and save the sample for testing, are stored.

In step 822, the surgery module 622 determines whether the surgery is complete. The surgery is complete if indicated by the surgeon. The surgeon may indicate the surgery is complete explicitly, such as by saying, “the procedure is complete.” Alternatively, the surgery may be determined to be complete if all surgical tools have been removed from the patient and any incisions made in the patient have been closed. In step 824, the surgery module terminates the session if the surgery is complete.

The surgery module 622 can be pre-operatively trained based on one or more surgical procedure simulations. One or more members of the surgical team can provide speech input for one or more simulated steps to train a speech engine, thereby providing a surgery-specific speech engine. In some embodiments, speech engines can be trained by a single user to generate a user-specific speech engine. The surgery module 622 can automatically switch between user profiles or speech engines based on the identified individual speaking. This allows multiple surgical team members to provide speech input at different times in a surgical procedure.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the process of FIG. 9 is performed by the training module 624. The training module 624 is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6. In other embodiments, the process of FIG. 9 is performed by a computer system, e.g., the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. Particular entities, for example, the console 108 or the robotic surgical system 160 perform some or all of the steps of the process in other embodiments. The console 108 and the robotic surgical system 160 are illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. Likewise, embodiments can include different and/or additional steps, or perform the steps in different orders.

In step 902, the training module 624 queries the procedure database 620 (see FIG. 6) for data from previous surgical procedures. The data includes commands issued by a surgeon or other medical professional and intended instructions or actions to be completed by the surgical robot 602 or another surgeon or medical professional. The instructions or actions further include one or more action sequences or a series of movements required to execute the original command provided by the surgeon. For example, the data can be a surgeon's speech input to “advance the endoscope six inches” during a colonoscopy procedure. The intended instructions are to insert an additional six inches of the endoscope into the patient's body, and the action sequence includes inserting two inches of the endoscope's length before inserting a further four inches of the endoscope's length while rotating the endoscope by 90 degrees.

In step 904, the training module 624 receives speech input from a surgeon or other medical professional provided during a previous surgical procedure. The speech input may have been directed to a surgical robot or another surgeon or medical professional assisting the surgeon. The speech input may alternatively be provided as a gesture, written instruction, or via another user interface, including any of a touchscreen display, joystick, keyboard, etc. For example, a surgeon's command is a verbal instruction to “advance the endoscope six inches” during a colonoscopy. In another example, a surgeon issues speech input to “remove the polyp and retrieve it for pathology testing” during a colonoscopy.

In step 906, the training module 624 predicts the instructions intended by the surgeon's speech input. A natural language processing model receives the surgeon's speech input as audio signals and transcribes the audio signals into written text. Alternatively, the audio signals may be directly translated into instructions, which can be understood by a tool action model to generate an action sequence for executing the instruction. In some embodiments, training a machine learning model (see FIG. 2) includes generating, by one or more processors of the surgical system of FIG. 6, a prediction for an action performed by a previous robot or a previous surgeon in a previous surgical procedure (see FIG. 7). Generating the prediction is based on spoken commands by the previous surgeon in historical data describing previous surgical procedures. For example, the training module 624 predicts that the instructions intended by the command to “advance the endoscope six inches” is to insert an endoscope a further six inches into the patient's body. In another example, the training module 624 predicts that the instructions intended by the command “remove the polyp and retrieve it for pathology testing” is to remove the endoscope from the patient's body.

In step 908, the training module 624 determines whether the predicted instructions are correct by retrieving the intended instructions associated with the commands from the procedure database 620. The intended instructions may have been manually provided by a surgeon, medical professional, or other technician following the conclusion of the procedure or alternatively may be an action taken by the surgical robot 602, assisting surgeon, or other medical professional in response to the surgeon's speech input. In an example, the training module 624 retrieves the instructions intended by the command to “advance the endoscope six inches” as to insert an endoscope a further 6 inches into the patient, which matches the prediction. In an alternate example, the training module 624 retrieves the instructions intended by the command “remove the polyp and retrieve it for pathology testing” as to use forceps inserted through the tool channel in the endoscope to grasp and separate the polyp in view of the endoscope's imaging device 616 and remove the polyp via the tool channel so it can be saved as a sample for testing. Because the intended instructions predicted by the natural language processing model of removing the endoscope from the patient are different than the intended instructions retrieved from the procedure database 620, the training module 624 determines that the predicted instruction is incorrect.

In step 910, the training module 624 updates the natural language processing model with the results of the predicted instructions. If the predicted instruction is correct, the training module 624 reinforces the ML model (see FIG. 2) enabling the natural language processing model's AI. If the prediction was incorrect, the training module 624 uses a regression model or other form of algorithmic or ML to adjust the assessment model by adjusting the probabilities of possible predictions. Further, the training module 624 updates the procedure database 620 with the updated natural language processing model. The ML model 624 can be trained to identify users, environment or ambient noise, speech-recognition, or other audio input. The ML model 624 can function as an automatic speech recognizer selects word(s) from its vocabulary that match the speech input from a user. If the user speech input is not present in the vocabulary of the automatic speech recognizer, then the system can notify the user to restate the command or provide non-verbal commands. The ML model 624 can be trained to interpret speech input based on training data, historical speech input from the user, etc. In some embodiments, when the system fails to recognize speech input with a threshold confidence level, the system can perform one or more speech-recognition training protocols using one or more neural networks, pattern matching, Gaussian mixture models, decision trees, or combinations thereof.

In step 912, the training module 624 receives the patient's anatomical data associated with the surgical procedure during which the command was issued from the procedure database 620. The anatomical data includes at least one image or a series of images including video from the surgical procedure. The images are captured just before, during, or soon after the command. In an example, the patient's anatomical data includes a series of pictures taken by an imaging device 616 at the end of an endoscope one second apart beginning five seconds before the surgeon issues the command to “advance the endoscope six inches” and ending five seconds after the surgeon completes the command.

In step 914, the training module 624 predicts the action sequences required to execute the surgeon's commands. An action sequence may include the steps of analyzing the patient's anatomical data and identifying anatomical structures such as bones, muscle tissue, nervous tissue, fat cells, and blood vessels, as well as tumors and other anomalies. Further, the training module 624 predicts a tool path, movement speed, and additional tool parameters such as gripping force of forceps or a clamp, or rotational speed of a rotary tool such as a drill or driver. In an example, the training module 624 predicts that the action sequence in response to the command to “advance the endoscope six inches” is to insert two inches of the endoscope and then insert a further four inches of the endoscope into the patient while rotating the endoscope 90 degrees.

In step 916, the training module 624 determines whether the predicted action sequence is correct by retrieving the action sequence associated with the command from the procedure database 620. The action sequence may have been manually provided by a surgeon, medical professional, or other technician following the conclusion of the procedure or alternatively may be the sequence of actions taken by the surgical robot 602, assisting surgeon or other medical professional in response to the surgeon's speech input. In an example, the training module 624 retrieves the action sequence associated with the command to “advance the endoscope six inches,” which was to insert two inches of the endoscope and then insert a further four inches of the endoscope into the patient while rotating the endoscope 90 degrees. Because the retrieved action sequence matches the prediction, the prediction is correct. In an alternate example, the action sequence retrieved from the procedure database 620 describes advancing the endoscope by three inches, rotating 90 degrees, and then advancing another three inches. Because this is different from the prediction, the prediction is determined to be incorrect.

In some embodiments, training an ML model includes comparing, by one or more processors of the surgical system of FIG. 6, a prediction to an actual action performed by a previous robot or a previous surgeon in a previous surgical procedure (see FIG. 7). The comparing is performed for training a regression model of the surgical system. For example, in step 918, the training module 624 updates the tool action model with the results of the predicted action sequence. If the predicted action sequence is correct, the training module 624 reinforces the ML model enabling the tool action model's AI. If the prediction was incorrect, the training module 624 uses a regression model or other form of algorithmic or machine learning to adjust the assessment model by adjusting the probabilities of possible predictions. Further, the training module 624 updates the procedure database 620 with the updated tool action model. In step 920, the training module 624 determines whether any additional commands in the procedure database 620 have not yet been used to train the natural language processing model and tool action model. If additional commands remain, the training module 624 receives speech input data and repeats the training process. In step 922, the training module 624 returns control to the surgery module 622 if no additional commands remain that have not already been used to train the natural language processing model and tool action model.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process for using speech input to control a surgical robot, in accordance with one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the process of FIG. 10 is performed by the action module 626. The action module 626 is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6. In other embodiments, the process of FIG. 10 is performed by a computer system, e.g., the example computer system 300 illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3. Particular entities, for example, the console 108 or the robotic surgical system 160, perform some or all of the steps of the process in other embodiments. The console 108 and the robotic surgical system 160 are illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1. Likewise, embodiments can include different and/or additional steps, or perform the steps in different orders.

In step 1002, the action module 626 receives instructions identified from a surgeon's speech input that are to be executed by a surgical robot 602. The instructions represent a task or objective. The instructions can lack lower-level details, such as the discrete tool movements or parameters necessary to execute the instructions. In an example, an instruction is to identify and remove a polyp in view of the imaging device 616 and then save the sample for testing.

In step 1004, the action module 626 queries the procedure database 620 for tool automation models for a range of instructions and surgical procedures. The tool automation models may be trained for executing a procedure, such as a colonoscopy or other exploratory surgery. In some embodiments, one or more actions are partially performed by a surgeon. For example, the tool automation models may be trained to perform specific instructions which may represent only a part of the surgical procedure or a series of actions, such as performing the biopsy of a polyp during a colonoscopy, or otherwise performing a tissue biopsy. In an example, a tool automation model is trained to perform a biopsy with only verbal instructions from a surgeon.

In step 1006, the action module 626 selects a tool automation model best suited to execute the instructions identified from the surgeon's commands. In an example, the surgeon's command is to “biopsy the polyp” during a colonoscopy, from which the identified instruction is to identify and remove a polyp in view of the imaging device 616 and then save the sample for testing. Therefore, the tool automation model selected is the polyp biopsy model which has been trained on previous polyp biopsy procedures.

In step 1008, the action module 626 identifies anatomical structures present in the images received from at least one imaging device 616. The imaging device 616 may be affixed to the end of a robotic arm 604 or integrated into the end effector 606 of a surgical robot 602's robotic arm 604. In an example, the imaging device 616 is a feature located in the leading end of an endoscope used during a colonoscopy procedure. The images received from the imaging device 616 are then analyzed in the context of the surgical procedure and instructions identified based on the surgeon's commands. In an example, the surgical procedure is a colonoscopy and the anatomical features identified include the location of the working end of the endoscope, such as the rectum, sacral prominence, descending colon, splenic flexure, etc., and any specific features such as the lumen or polyps if present. In step 1008, the action module 626 further identifies other specific anatomical structures and provides the identifications to the surgeon as an overlay on a live image from the imaging device 616. The information may assist the surgeon during the procedure and provide feedback to the surgeon. In an example, the working end of the endoscope is in the ascending colon and has identified a 3 mm diameter polyp within view of the imaging device 616. The feature is highlighted on the surgeon's monitor displaying a live feed from the imaging device 616 by a circle surrounding the identified polyp.

In some embodiments, the surgical robot 602 performs one or more actions of a surgical procedure on a patient's body in accordance with the generated parameters. For example, in step 1010, the action module 626 selects the action sequence and further tool parameters required to execute the instructions or actions. The action sequence includes the discrete actions required to execute the instructions identified in response to the surgeon's commands. In an example, the action module 626 identifies a 3 mm diameter polyp in view of the imaging device and 2 inches away from the end of the endoscope. The action module 626 determines that forceps must be inserted through the tool channel, extended 2 inches past the end of the endoscope, opened, and then positioned to grasp opposing sides of the polyp before closing around the polyp and applying a force of no more than 5 pounds per square inch. Once the polyp is firmly grasped, the forceps are retracted with a steady force away from the side of the colon at a 45-degree angle. Once the polyp is removed, it is extracted by the forceps via the tool channel in the endoscope and placed in a sample jar.

In some embodiments, it is determined that one or more actions are incompatible with a surgical tool 154 (see FIG. 1) being used in a surgical procedure based on the generated parameters. Responsive to determining that the one or more actions are incompatible, the surgical robot 602 transfers control of the surgical procedure to the surgeon. For example, in step 1012, the action module 626 determines whether the hardware available is compatible with the action sequence identified to execute the instructions. Based on the data used to train the selected tool automation model, the preferred method of executing the surgeon's commands may attempt to use a tool 154 (see FIG. 1) that is not present in the operating room 102 or that may be present but not available for use by the surgical robot 602. In an example, the biopsy of a polyp may require a wire loop, which may not be available to the surgical robot 602. If the hardware is not available for use by the surgical robot 602, the surgical robot 602 may provide a visual response to a surgeon via a user interface such as a display or may alternatively provide the response in an audible conversational manner such as, “this procedure requires a wire loop which is currently not available” to which the surgeon may respond, “use biopsy forceps instead.” Alternatively, the surgeon may choose to perform the biopsy manually.

In some embodiments, it is determined that one or more actions are unsafe responsive to insufficient training data for an ML model (see FIG. 2). The training data is associated with the one or more actions. Responsive to determining that the one or more actions are unsafe, the surgical robot 602 transfers control of the surgical procedure to the surgeon. For example, in step 1014, the action module 626 determines whether the action sequence can be performed safely. The action may be performed safely if the tool automation model has been provided sufficient training data so as to be able to simulate the action prior to executing the actions such that the surgical tools have sufficient clearance to execute the action sequence without causing harm to surrounding tissues. Similarly, the action may be performed safely if no sensitive anatomical features have been identified in proximity to the site such as blood vessels or nervous tissue, which may be inadvertently harmed. If the action cannot be executed safely, the action module 626 provides a response to the surgeon such as “the biopsy cannot be completed safely as there are blood vessels nearby.” The surgeon may then be required to manually perform the action. Alternatively, the surgeon may provide additional commands in order to allow the surgical robot 602 to perform the action without harming the patient, such as “use a wire loop to remove the polyp instead of forceps.”

In some embodiments, a user interface of the surgical system of FIG. 6 displays information describing one or more actions. The user interface receives a command from a surgeon for the surgical robot 602 to cease performing the one or more actions. Responsive to receiving the command, the surgical robot 602 transfers control of the surgical procedure to the surgeon. For example, in step 1016, the action module 626 prompts the surgeon to approve the action sequences and tool parameters selected to execute the determined instructions. The surgeon may further converse with the surgical robot 602 to adjust the selected tool parameters or may alternatively choose to perform the action sequence manually. In an example, the surgical robot 602 describes its intended action sequence to the surgeon:

-   -   Advance the forceps 2 inches from the end of the endoscope, open         the forceps to a width of 8 mm, advance the opened forceps to         surround the polyp, and then close the forceps with a gripping         force not to exceed 5 pounds per square inch. The forceps will         then be pulled away from the side of the colon at an angle of 45         degrees, removing the polyp. The polyp will then be extracted         through the tool channel and placed in a sample jar for         pathology testing.

The surgeon may then reply, “use a maximum of 3 pounds per square inch of gripping strength” or alternatively, “use a wire loop instead of forceps.”

In step 1018, the action module 626 determines whether the surgeon approves of the action sequence. The surgeon may approve by providing via a user interface, such as a physical button or a virtual button on a touchscreen, an explicit response to proceed or verbally, such as by saying, “Those parameters are correct,” or “Execute the action.” The surgeon may alternatively provide approval passively, such as failing to intervene in an allotted amount of time. The surgical robot 602 may further prompt the surgeon with statements such as, “awaiting approval to proceed” or “proceeding with the current parameters in thirty seconds.” In some embodiments, the surgical robot 602 simulates the action or sequence generated based on speech input. The user can view the simulation to determine whether to approve the action sequence and confirm that the surgical robot 602 correctly interpreted the speech input. By way of example, the user can view via display (e.g., a display of a console) a simulated tool path for a surgical tool corresponding to the user's speech input. The user can provide additional input (e.g., via touch display, speech input, etc.) to modify or approve the actions. Alternatively, the surgical robot 602 will default to a status of “disapproval” if no response is received. The surgeon may additionally provide explicit disapproval, such as by stating, “Those parameters are incorrect,” or “I will perform the action,” or may converse with the surgical robot 602 to adjust the parameters before providing approval, such as by saying, “Reduce the gripping strength of the forceps from a maximum of five pounds per square inch to three pounds per square inch.”

In step 1020, the action module 626 performs the action sequence with the parameters approved by the surgeon. The action is performed completely or at least in part autonomously by the surgical robot 602. In an example, the removal of a polyp is performed entirely by the surgical robot 602, including insertion and positioning of the forceps, gripping of the polyp, the application of force to remove the polyp, and the retrieval of the polyp to be saved as a sample. In an alternate example, the action is performed in a partially autonomous manner where the forceps are inserted and positioned autonomously by the surgical robot, but the surgeon manually applies the gripping force to the forceps to secure the polyp and additionally the force needed to pull the polyp away from the colon. In a further example, the action may be performed in steps controlled verbally by the surgeon but otherwise completed autonomously by the surgical robot. In an example, the surgeon issues commands which are immediately performed by the surgical robot such as, “position the forceps around the polyp,” to which the surgical robot 602 positions the forceps in an open position around the polyp. The surgeon may further say, “grip the polyp with three PSI of force,” if the forceps are properly positioned, to which the surgical robot 102 will close the forceps around the polyp with the specified amount of force.

In step 1022, the action module 626 returns control to the surgery module 622, with an action status. The action status includes either “completed” or “incomplete.” If the action was successfully performed by the surgical robot 602, the action status is completed, alternatively, if the action was not performed or not performed successfully, then the action status is incomplete.

The functions performed in the processes and methods can be implemented in differing order. Furthermore, the outlined steps and operations are only provided as examples, and some of the steps and operations can be optional, combined into fewer steps and operations, or expanded into additional steps and operations without detracting from the essence of the disclosed embodiments.

The techniques introduced here can be implemented by programmable circuitry (e.g., one or more microprocessors), software and/or firmware, special-purpose hardwired (i.e., non-programmable) circuitry, or a combination of such forms. Special-purpose circuitry can be in the form of one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

The description and drawings herein are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. Further, various modifications can be made without deviating from the scope of the embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed above, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms can be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotation marks. The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than one way. One will recognize that “memory” is one form of a “storage” and that the terms can on occasion be used interchangeably.

Consequently, alternative language and synonyms can be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, nor is any special significance to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any term discussed herein is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.

It is to be understood that the embodiments and variations shown and described herein are merely illustrative of the principles of this invention and that various modifications can be implemented by those skilled in the art. 

We claim:
 1. A computer-implemented method for controlling a surgical robot comprising: receiving, by the surgical robot, speech input from a surgeon using a user interface, the speech input associated with a robotic surgical procedure being performed on a patient's body by the surgical robot; extracting, by the surgical robot, at least one instruction from the speech input using natural language processing; generating, by the surgical robot, one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure to be performed by the surgical robot, the one or more actions comprising parameters to control the surgical robot during the robotic surgical procedure, wherein the one or more actions are generated using a machine learning model based on the at least one instruction, the machine learning model trained based on historical data describing previous surgical procedures; determining, by the surgical robot, that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure based on components of the surgical robot and the parameters; responsive to determining that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions, transmitting, by the surgical robot, a notification to the surgeon using the user interface that the surgical robot is capable to perform a portion of the robotic surgical procedure indicated by the at least one instruction; and responsive to transmitting the notification, performing, by the surgical robot, the one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure on the patient's body in accordance with the parameters.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying, by the surgical robot on the user interface, information describing the one or more actions; receiving, by the surgical robot from the user interface, a command from the surgeon for the surgical robot to cease performing the one or more actions; and responsive to receiving the command, transferring, by the surgical robot, control of the robotic surgical procedure to the surgeon.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein performing the one or more actions comprises controlling, by the surgical robot, at least one of a robotic arm, an end effector, or an imaging device of the surgical robot in accordance with the parameters.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein training the machine learning model comprises: generating a prediction for an action performed by a previous robot or a previous surgeon in a previous surgical procedure, wherein generating the prediction is based on spoken commands by the previous surgeon in the historical data describing previous surgical procedures.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein training the machine learning model further comprises: comparing the prediction to an actual action performed by the previous robot or the previous surgeon in the previous surgical procedure, wherein the comparing is performed for training a regression model of the surgical robot.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the one or more actions comprises: identifying anatomical structures of the patient's body based on anatomical data captured by at least one imaging device of the surgical robot; and determining at least one path for moving a surgical tool through the patient's body during the robotic surgical procedure.
 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: storing information describing the speech input, the at least one instruction, and the one or more actions in the historical data describing previous surgical procedures.
 8. A surgical robot comprising: one or more computer processors; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions, which when executed by the one or more computer processors, cause the surgical robot to: receive speech input from a surgeon using a user interface, the speech input associated with a robotic surgical procedure being performed on a patient's body by the surgical robot; extract at least one instruction from the speech input using natural language processing; generate one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure to be performed by the surgical robot, the one or more actions comprising parameters to control the surgical robot during the robotic surgical procedure, wherein the one or more actions are generated using a machine learning model based on the at least one instruction, the machine learning model trained based on historical data describing previous surgical procedures; determine that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure based on components of the surgical robot and the parameters; responsive to determining that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions, transmit a notification to the surgeon using the user interface that the surgical robot is capable to perform a portion of the robotic surgical procedure indicated by the at least one instruction; and responsive to determining that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions, perform the one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure on the patient's body in accordance with the parameters.
 9. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions further cause the surgical robot to: determine that the one or more actions are incompatible with a surgical tool being used in the robotic surgical procedure based on the parameters; and responsive to determining that the one or more actions are incompatible, transfer, by the surgical robot, control of the robotic surgical procedure to the surgeon.
 10. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions further cause the surgical robot to: determine that the one or more actions are unsafe responsive to insufficient training data for the machine learning model associated with the one or more actions; and responsive to determining that the one or more actions are unsafe, transfer, by the surgical robot, control of the robotic surgical procedure to the surgeon.
 11. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the one or more actions are partially performed by the surgeon.
 12. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions further cause the surgical robot to: display, by the user interface, information describing the one or more actions; receive, by the user interface, a command from the surgeon for the surgical robot to cease performing the one or more actions; and responsive to receiving the command, transfer, by the surgical robot, control of the robotic surgical procedure to the surgeon.
 13. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions to perform the one or more actions cause the surgical robot to: control, by the surgical robot, at least one of a robotic arm, an end effector, or an imaging device of the surgical robot in accordance with the parameters.
 14. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions to train the machine learning model cause the surgical robot to: generate a prediction for an action performed by a previous robot or a previous surgeon in a previous surgical procedure, wherein generating the prediction is based on spoken commands by the previous surgeon in the historical data describing previous surgical procedures.
 15. The surgical robot of claim 14, wherein the computer instructions to train the machine learning model further cause the surgical robot to: compare the prediction to an actual action performed by the previous robot or the previous surgeon in the previous surgical procedure, wherein the comparing is performed for training a regression model of the surgical robot.
 16. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions to generate the one or more actions cause the surgical robot to: identify anatomical structures of the patient's body based on anatomical data captured by at least one imaging device of the surgical robot; and determine at least one path for moving a surgical tool through the patient's body during the robotic surgical procedure.
 17. The surgical robot of claim 8, wherein the computer instructions further cause the surgical robot to: store information describing the speech input, the at least one instruction, and the one or more actions in the historical data describing previous surgical procedures.
 18. A robotic surgical system comprising: one or more computer processors; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions, which when executed by the one or more computer processors, cause the robotic surgical system to: receive speech input from a surgeon using a user interface, the speech input associated with a robotic surgical procedure being performed by a surgical robot; extract at least one instruction from the speech input using natural language processing; generate generating one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure to be performed by the surgical robot, the one or more actions comprising parameters to control the surgical robot during the robotic surgical procedure, wherein the one or more actions are generated using a machine learning model based on the at least one instruction, the machine learning model trained based on historical data describing previous surgical procedures; determine that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure based on components of the surgical robot and the parameters; responsive to determining that the surgical robot is capable to perform the one or more actions, transmit a notification to the surgeon using the user interface that the surgical robot is capable to perform a portion of the robotic surgical procedure indicated by the at least one instruction; and responsive to transmitting the notification, perform the one or more actions of the robotic surgical procedure on the patient's body in accordance with the parameters.
 19. The robotic surgical system of claim 18, wherein the computer instructions further cause the robotic surgical system to: display on the user interface, information describing the one or more actions; receive from the user interface, a command from the surgeon for the surgical robot to cease performing the one or more actions; and responsive to receiving the command, transfer control of the robotic surgical procedure to the surgeon.
 20. The robotic surgical system of claim 18, wherein the computer instructions to perform the one or more actions causes the robotic surgical system to control at least one of a robotic arm, an end effector, or an imaging device of the surgical robot in accordance with the parameters. 